EDISON, N.J. – The Fairfield University men’s cross country team has been selected seventh while the women’s team was tabbed for a ninth-place finish in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Preseason Coaches’ Poll. Both Stags’ squads are entering their second season under the direction of Head Coach Brendan Rickert.
Perennial MAAC power Iona was selected atop both preseason polls. The Gaels have won 24 consecutive men’s titles and 10 straight women’s crowns. The complete polls are available at MAACSports.com.
The Fairfield men’s cross country team returns eight harriers while welcoming eight newcomers from last year’s squad that placed sixth at the MAAC Championship. The Stags were paced by three finishers among the top 25 at that race – Sam Daly, Nolan Parsley and Dan DeBlock.
Fairfield women’s cross country placed ninth last season at the MAAC Championship, led by Maureen Crimmins, Cate Forte and Danielle Renzi. Among the 11 returners for 2015, junior Jacqueline-Ann Willsey was the Stags’ top finisher at the conference meet. Rickert’s squad will also incorporate seven newcomers into the fold this fall.
The Stags open the 2015 season on Saturday, Sept. 5 at Marist. The event will also include MAAC opponents Iona and Siena as well as the CAA’s Hofstra Pride.
