BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Crystal Malaykhan of Florida A&M Women's Cross Country has been named Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Newcomer of the Week for the period of September 14-20, 2026, announced Monday afternoon from the league office headquarters in Birmingham, Alabama.
 
Malaykhan, a 5-foot-8, sophomore from Orlando, Florida, placed second overall at the Willie Laster Cross Country Invitational over the weekend, hosted by Albany State in Albany, Georgia. While aiding Florida A&M to a first-place team crown for the event, the Lake Nona High product turned in a runner-up individual performance of 19:42.10 – a season-best performance as well.
 
This is her first SWAC weekly award at FAMU.
 
Laura Avila from Alabama A&M was named Runner of the Week.
 
The Rattlers return to action Friday, Sept. 18, staying local in Tallahassee, as they compete in the Pre-Regional hosted by Florida State at Apalachee Regional Park. The event is set to begin at 7:30 a.m.
 
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