Central Washington University Athletics

2024-2025: Araceli Esquivel began her Wildcat career in August with the cross country team, where she ran at the GNAC Cross Country Championships and the NCAA DII Regional Meet. She helped the women's cross team to place 7th at GNAC's and 15th at Regionals. Following a strong cross season, Araceli also competed both indoor and outdoor for the track team. During indoor she ran the 800m, mile, and the DMR. At the Indoor GNAC Championships, Araceli ran the 1600m for the third leg of the DMR and helped them to place sixth at conference. During outdoor she ran the 800m and the 1500m, and had PR's in both events throughout the season.
Background: A freshman from Oroville, WA, Araceli Esquivel comes to CWU as a two-time qualifier for the Washington State Cross Country Championships, including a 5th place finish in 2023 in the 1B/2B Championships. Esquivel also brings additional speed to the track, with strong performances in the 800 meters, including winning the CW2B and WIAA District 6 Championships, capping off her senior season with a 2nd place finish in the WIAA 1B, 2B, 1A State Championships in the event.
High school: Graduated from Oroville High School. This year, qualified for State Track and won the state champion for the 400 meter as well as placing 2nd in the 800 meter, and 6th in the 200 meter. Also went to state for Cross Country and place 5th on the podium. Captain for Cross Country team, Track team and also Basketball cheer captain. Voted best female "Track player of the year" by all the coaches in league. Also voted MVP for both XC and Track. Lettered in Track & Field, Cross Country, Tennis, and Cheer leading.
Why CWU: "I wanted to be close to home, I heard so many good things about the people, campus, team and just thought it was perfect for me."
Personal:  "Have two amazing loving parents who support me with everything I do and three younger siblings. I love horror movies and spending time with my three close friends Faith, Lauren and Izzy. I'm really caring and passionate with everything in my life, that being what I'm doing, people, animals etc I just care so much and love everything. And I find everything funny."