UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND, Va. - The Richmond men's and women's cross country squads have continued their long-standing tradition of academic excellence by achieving 2011 Division I All-Academic status, as announced by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Association of America (USTFCCCA) this week. This marks the 10th consecutive year that both Spider squads have been named to the list.
"We are very happy for our teams and proud of their accomplishments in the classroom," said Director of Track & Field and Cross Country Lori Taylor. "Every year we set this honor as a goal for our program. For the 10th consecutive year our men and women have achieved this award, exemplifying the importance our teams place on their primary purpose for being here at Richmond - to earn a quality education."
To qualify as a USTFCCCA All-Academic Cross Country Team, the program must have had a cumulative team GPA of 3.00 or better and have started at least five runners at their respective NCAA regional championship.
The Richmond women recorded a 3.25 cumulative grade point average to join six other A-10 programs in Charlotte, Dayton, Fordham, La Salle, Saint Joseph's and Temple on this year's list.
The Spider men maintained a 3.21 cumulative GPA to complete what has been a decade of academic distinction for both the men's and women's programs. They join five fellow A-10 squads in Charlotte, Dayton, Fordham, La Salle and Temple in receiving the honor.
"It's also important to recognize that our student-athletes are not only earning their education, but they are doing so at a remarkably high level in the classroom and on the cross country course as well as in both indoor and outdoor track & field," said head men's coach Steve Taylor. "They exert tremendous passion for success. Our men and women are not doing the minimum, but have chosen to excel in every area and learn the balance between all aspects of their college experience that also includes community service work."
Stay updated on the all the latest Spider Cross Country news and notes right here on RichmondSpiders.com. More in-depth coverage can also be found on Coach Steve Taylor's blog and by following him on Twitter.
