Heinlen, a native of Galion, Ohio, was a member of the Galion High School cross country team that finished 13th and ninth at the state meet in his freshman and sophomore years respectively as well as winning county and district titles both years and a regional championship in 2005. He was named to the Northern Ohio League First or Second Team all four years. His best time as a senior in a five-kilometer race was 17:02. In addition to running for Galion High School, Heinlen has run in numerous 5K races and won the Garlo Nature Preserve 5K race. He also won his age group in the Dutchtown 5K and finished sixth overall at the Memorial Day Freedom Run.

“Blake comes to us from a very strong running program at Galion, and I am excited about his addition to our team,” said MVNU head coach Chip Wilson. “He has had the opportunity to compete at the state level in both cross country and track, and his experience along with his running ability will make a major impact on our team. He excelled in the 800 meter run in track which shows that he can mix long distances and speed. He is a hard worker and I am anxious to see what he can do at the college level. I believe he is ready to make a solid contribution this fall.”

In addition to running cross country and track, Heinlen was a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

“There are several reasons why I chose MVNU,” said Heinlen of his college choice. “MVNU offers a great Christian environment, and because I grew up in a Christian home it is the best choice for me.”

The MVNU cross country program was reborn in the fall of 2006 after not having a program since the 1979 season. After a competitive first season back, the Cougars continued to improve in 2007 by finishing sixth out of 12 teams in the American Mideast Conference/NAIA Region IX race and tenth out of 22 at the National Christian College Athletic Association meet.