The NAIA Men's Cross Country Coaches' Top 25 Poll was released on Wednesday afternoon and found a new team among the top ten. Bryan College moved up to the eighth spot in the poll after winning the Southeastern Classic and beating previously #3 ranked Embry Riddle and #11 McKendree.
Ranked 16th in last week's poll, the Lions claimed the team title over the twenty-two team field in Louisville, KY. Led by sophomore Bryson Harper's runner up finish in 25:22 over the eight-kilometer course, the Lions grabbed the victory with 72 team points.
"It's an honor for our program to be ranked alongside some of the top teams in the country. It is AN exciting time for Bryan, our alumni and fans. We can't get too caught up in the ratings, but it is nice for our guys to be recognized for their work and achievements," stated Head Coach Rodney Stoker.
The Lion squad has won the team title three of the four times it has raced this fall; with the two other victories coming at Montreat's Cavalier Kickoff Classic and the Berry Invitational. Three freshmen on the squad are playing a role in the success for Bryan. Jason McLeod (Ocoee, FL), Drew Thompson (Murfreesboro, TN) and Jake Bradley (Ringgold, GA) continue to improve and look forward to the conference championship.
"Our freshmen are extremely talented and they are starting to come around with their fitness. Each of them has a great shot of being the conference freshman of the year next weekend at Black Mountain. I'm impressed with what they've been able to contribute to our team this fall," commented Coach Stoker. Montreat College will host the AAC Cross Country Championship on November 7 in Black Mountain, NC.
