POUGHKEEPSIE, NY (September 30, 2010) – For the first time in school history, the Vassar College women's cross country team has earned a national ranking.

The US Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) recently release the national NCAA Division III rankings for Week 3 of the 2010 Cross Country season and the Brewers were ranked 35th in the nation. This first-ever citation comes on the heels of Vassar's second week as the 5th ranked team in the Atlantic Region Caches Poll.

"Our women have come a long way over the past few years, and this ranking just shows that others are starting to take notice,” said head coach James McCowan. “For the past few years our women have been working exceptionally hard with the goal of an NCAA qualification, and this is just another sign that we have momentum on our side right now. We have the right blend of experience, talent, and belief; and a deep program that has standouts from every class.

“I really believe this team is ready to take the program to another level. Of course, it is still very early, and the most important races of the season are in November. That said, the women are focused on staying competitive and running our best when it counts the most.," McCowan added.

In their last meet at the Oneonta Pre-Regional meet on September 17, the Brewers finished 4th running against many of the strongest teams in the region.

On November 13th at the Atlantic Regional Championships, the top two finishers will automatically qualify for the NCAA championships while the top 5 teams are eligible for an at-large qualification. Last season, the Brewers placed 12th in the region.

Vassar next competes at the Lehigh Paul Short Invitational this Friday, October 1 at Noon.