Ava Leadbetter to Join Arizona State Team in 2027
The English athlete will move to Tempe in August 2027 to compete in cross country for one year of graduate studies.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Running
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Athlete Ava Leadbetter, who currently competes for Border Harriers and England, will relocate to Tempe in August 2027 to join the Arizona State University athletics program. During her year-long stay, she will pursue a master's degree in sport strategic communications while training for 6k cross country courses.
Why it matters
Leadbetter brings a strong competitive background to Tempe, including a 10k personal best of 34 minutes 33 seconds. Her transition reflects the growing trend of international athletes joining U.S. university programs to balance elite-level racing with graduate-level education.
The recruitment is based on Leadbetter's performance profile, which includes a 10k personal best of 34 minutes 33 seconds. The university and athlete have confirmed a one-year commitment to compete in cross country while she completes her master's degree.
The players
Ava Leadbetter
An athlete from Hensingham who represents Border Harriers, Copeland Athletics Club, and England.
Michelle Chewens
The head coach at Arizona State University who initiated recruitment for the athletics program.
Arizona State University
A public research university in Tempe with an athletics program that competes in cross country.
The details
Leadbetter secured her spot after submitting performance showcases to U.S. institutions, leading to direct recruitment by coach Michelle Chewens. She will pivot from her typical 10k road race experience to the 6k distance standard for U.S. collegiate cross country events. Her decision to relocate was based on the specific climate, environment, and support provided by the Arizona State University staff.
Timeline
February 2025: Leadbetter began considering a move to U.S. universities.
November 2026: Leadbetter participates in the Liverpool Cross Country.
August 2027: Leadbetter travels to the U.S. to begin her studies and racing career.
Health Landscape
International recruitment remains a pillar of U.S. collegiate sports, operating within the strict framework of NCAA Division I eligibility standards. This influx of global talent continues to raise the competitive intensity for 6k and other endurance events across the country.
Athletes considering similar transitions to U.S. collegiate programs should prioritize balancing heavy academic loads with high-intensity endurance training. Consulting with coaches regarding injury prevention and recovery schedules is essential when adjusting to the higher frequency of cross country races.
The takeaway
Leadbetter's transition highlights the rigorous demands of moving between international and domestic racing circuits. Athletes looking to maintain performance while advancing their education should prioritize consistency in their base training and clear communication with their coaching staff.
Further reading
For more on endurance training and competitive milestones, visit Running.
Source note: This article includes information reported by News & Star.
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