NEW ORLEANS, LA. -- On the heels of a strong performance at the Lewis Crossover, the Augustana women's cross country team has moved into the No. 4 spot in the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) national rankings. Despite a strong finish over the weekend, the Augustana men sit at No. 7 in the USTFCCCA poll. 

In the week five regional poll, both the women and men remained second in the NCAA DII Central Region. 

Augustana, who finished second (women) and third (men) at the highly-stacked Lewis Crossover, now turns its sights to the NSIC Championships next weekend in Wayne, Nebraska. For her performance at the Crossover, sophomore Nicolette Schmidt was named the NSIC Cross Country Athlete of the Week.
 
Augustana head coach Tracy Hellman is happy with his program's performance this year, and is confident in the Vikings' strategy heading into championship season. 

"Coach Scott Tanis and myself feel positive that we are in a good position as we enter championship season," Hellman said. "Our pack running has been very good, and if we can continue that as we enter larger meets, success will follow.

"Our top lineup has many moving parts, which is a strong example of our team depth. We have discussed the need for front runners in races, and we seem to be developing that aspect in our team results. We also understand that this final championship stretch is where we are truly measured, and we are excited and motivated for the journey ahead."

Following the NSIC Championship, Augustana looks to earn an invite to the NCAA Regional Championship and DII National Championship meet. 

About the USTFCCA
The U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) is a non-profit professional organization representing cross country and track & field coaches of all levels. The organization represents thousands of coaching members encompassing NCAA track & field programs (DI, DII, and DIII) and includes members representing the NAIA and NJCAA, as well as a number of state high school coaches associations.