Skip To Main Content

Linfield University Athletics

what's going on

Events

going viral

Social Media

our home

Linfield University

stay connected

Coverage Links

Presented by
what's going on

Events

going viral

Social Media

our home

Linfield University

stay connected

Coverage Links

2023-24 Swimming Roster

Kelly Bird, Linfield Sports Communications

Cole Runion

  • Class Senior
  • Hometown Silverton, Ore.
  • Major Exercise Science

Biography

JUNIOR
Letter winner.
Swam a personal best in the 100 freestyle with a time of 51.47 at the NWC Championships.
Swam a personal best in the 100 backstroke with a time of 58.76 at the NWC Championships.
Swam a personal best in the 50 backstroke with a time of 27.16 on Jan 20.
Swam a personal best in the 200 backstroke with a time of 2:24.44 on Jan. 14.
 
SOPHOMORE
Letter winner.
 
FRESHMAN
Did not compete in any events during shortened spring season. 
 
SILVERTON HIGH SCHOOL
Eight-time letter winner in baseball, swimming and football.
Holds school record in 200 freestyle relay.
Placed 11th in the state tournament in the 50 freestyle and 100 backstroke.
All-5A & all-Mid-Willamette Conference honorable mention infielder.
Named all-Mid-Willamette Conference Gold Glove second baseman.
Participated in the Volcanoes Futures All-Star game.
Had a career kicking accuracy of 80 percent in football.
Advanced to the quarterfinals of the state sectional baseball tournament.
Made it to two state playoff tournaments in football.
 
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Majoring in exercise science.
Son of Jamie and Jeremiah Runion.
 
WHY LINFIELD? I chose Linfield because I talked with some current students and some alumni. They had so much in common, talking about how it is one of the best atmospheres you could ever have. I loved how they absolutely recommended this college. When I was able to go visit, it gave me a feeling of comfort and it was at that point that I realized I wanted to go there.
 
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A STUDENT-ATHLETE AT LINFIELD? Being a student-athlete means being able to find time for things, whether that’s school work or hanging out with friends, while also scheduling so that it will not interfere with sports.
 
WHAT THE BEST LINFIELD CLASS YOU’VE TAKEN? Anatomy has been my favorite class, I have always been fascinated by the human body and the way that it works.
 
WHAT MAKES YOU INTERESTING AS A STUDENT-ATHLETE? I am unique because I have the ability to multitask and balance all aspects of my life and do it well. I have always been a multi-sport athlete and an honor student in addition to the ability to have a positive social circle.
 
WHO HAS BEEN THE GREATEST INSPIRATION IN YOUR LIFE? Both of my parents will forever be my inspiration. They have worked so hard to give my siblings and I such a blessed life and I could not thank them enough.
 
THE GREATEST PRINCIPLE THAT I’VE LEARNED WHILE COMPETING AT LINFIELD HAS BEEN... Never underestimate your ability. You can do anything you set your mind to.
 
AS A LINFIELD STUDENT-ATHLETE, MY GOALS INDIVIDUALLY AND COLLECTIVELY FOR MY TEAM ARE... To support everyone and make everyone feel involved.
 
WHAT IS NEXT AFTER LINFIELD? I’m currently undecided about what is next, and Linfield will allow me to discover new career ideas to help me decide my career goals.