Aug. 26, 2008

New Orleans, La. - The United States Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association announced its preseason regional rankings on Tuesday, Aug. 26. Grand Valley State University's men's and women's cross country teams were both picked to win the Great Lakes Region. Both teams get underway at the Laker Kick-Off Classic in Allendale, Mich. on Thursday, Aug. 28.

The Laker women have won seven consecutive Great Lakes Regional titles, while the men have claimed six straight regional championships. Each team placed seven runners on the All-Region teams after winning the crown last season. Head coach Jerry Baltes was also honored as both the men's and women's Great Lakes Regional Coach of the Year.