Sept. 16, 2009

PHILADELPHIA - The La Salle men's and women's cross country teams are both ranked in the Mid-Atlantic region to open the 2009 season as announced the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Association (USTFCCCA).

The USTFCCCA released its preseason national and regional rankings this week, and have the Explorer men and women ranked seventh and 10th, respectively, in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The Explorer men finished seventh in the region last season behind top-40 finishes by Trevon Rainford, Korey Edwards and Tyler Jones at the regional championship. Rainford (NCAA District 2 All-Region), Edwards (All-Atlantic 10) and Jones all return for 2009, along with 2008 Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year Nick Crits.

The Explorer women, who finished 12th at last year's regional championship, start 2009 ranked 10th. The Blue and Gold return sophomores Caitlin Storbeck and Stephanie Bearish, who were the top two Explorers at last year's regional meet.

The Explorers return to the course this weekend as they head to the Boston University Invitational on Sunday. Several men will be competing at the Delaware Invitational on Saturday as well.