For the first time since Seattle University completed the reclassification process back to the NCAA Division I level, the Redhawk women’s cross country team appears in the West Region rankings from the United States Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA), released Monday morning by the national organization.
After finishing ahead of Portland State, Oregon State, and Portland on their way to winning the Viking Cross Country Classic this past Saturday, the Seattle U women are 15th in this week’s West Region rankings. They are the only Western Athletic Conference women’s cross country team to appear in any of the regional rankings this week.
“This is a milestone for our program. The West Region is one of the toughest, if not the toughest, region in the country. To be ranked speaks to the effort and focus the ladies have put forth in the years leading up to now and especially this season. We knew this could be a special year and if the ladies continue to build upon what they've accomplished so far, this won't be our only milestone of the season,” Seattle U head cross country coach Trisha Steidl said.
According to the organization’s press release, USTFCCCA Regional Cross Country Rankings are determined subjectively by a single member coach in each respective region. The regional representative is tasked with weighing returning team strength with current-season results in determining predicted team finishes at the NCAA Regional Championships.
The Seattle University cross country program is gearing up for its annual home meet, as the Emerald City Open will take place Saturday, Oct. 18, beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Lower Woodland Park. It is also the team’s Pink Meet, raising awareness about the need for breast cancer detection and treatment.