CEDAR FALLS - Cedar Rapids Jefferson graduate Rachel Broghammer, a two-time state champion with the J-Hawks, plans to join the University of Northern Iowa track team.

Broghammer ran the anchor leg when Jefferson won the Class 4A state title in the 4x200 relay this year, snapping a state record that had stood since 1975. She also helped the J-Hawks win the 4x200 relay as a sophomore in 2011.

Broghammer helped the J-Hawks finish second in the 4x100 relay, third in the sprint medley relay and fourth in the 4x400 relay at the state meet this year. Jefferson placed fifth in the team standings, its highest finish in more than 10 years.

"Rachel is a fierce competitor and knows how to win," said UNI Coach Dan Steele. "I was really impressed watching her bring her team from behind on so many occasions. Her determination and fearless running are exactly what we are looking for at UNI."

Broghammer is the third Jefferson graduate to join the Panthers. Taylor Jacobson is joining the UNI women's track program as a 400 meter hurdler and Timauntay Jones is joining the Panthers in the 800 meter run. Jacobson and Jones can run other events as well.