
Spider Cross Country Teams Recognized for Academic Excellence for 23rd Consecutive Year
01/31/2025 | Cross Country
RICHMOND, Va. — The University of Richmond cross country teams have once again solidified their commitment to academic achievement, earning NCAA All-Academic Team honors from the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) for the 23rd consecutive year.
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To qualify for this prestigious recognition, teams must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale for all student-athletes listed on the institution's NCAA Squad List. The Richmond women's team achieved the honor with a cumulative GPA of 3.22, while the men's team earned an impressive 3.49 GPA.
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"These young men and women excel both in the classroom and in competition," said Lori Taylor, Director of Track and Field and Cross Country.
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"To sustain this streak for 23 consecutive years is truly remarkable. As a staff, we're extremely proud of their accomplishments and their dedication to education. Every year, we set academic excellence and winning the Atlantic 10 Championship as core goals for our program, and it's incredible to see both our men and women consistently rise to the challenge. This award exemplifies the value our teams and staff place on education, which remains the primary reason our student-athletes are here at the University of Richmond."
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Head men's coach Steve Taylor echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the dedication and balance exhibited by the student-athletes. "For the men to achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.49 and the women a 3.22 is remarkable," he said. "We place emphasis on the importance of academic success during the recruiting process, and our student-athletes fully embrace this tradition and goal. They're not only pursuing their education but doing so at an exceptional level, all while competing at the highest standards. Their passion for excellence extends beyond the minimum requirements, showcasing their ability to balance academics, athletics and community service. This team tradition is a testament to their drive and character."
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To read the full list of honorees click here for the men, and click here for the women.Â
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To qualify for this prestigious recognition, teams must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale for all student-athletes listed on the institution's NCAA Squad List. The Richmond women's team achieved the honor with a cumulative GPA of 3.22, while the men's team earned an impressive 3.49 GPA.
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"These young men and women excel both in the classroom and in competition," said Lori Taylor, Director of Track and Field and Cross Country.
Â
"To sustain this streak for 23 consecutive years is truly remarkable. As a staff, we're extremely proud of their accomplishments and their dedication to education. Every year, we set academic excellence and winning the Atlantic 10 Championship as core goals for our program, and it's incredible to see both our men and women consistently rise to the challenge. This award exemplifies the value our teams and staff place on education, which remains the primary reason our student-athletes are here at the University of Richmond."
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Head men's coach Steve Taylor echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the dedication and balance exhibited by the student-athletes. "For the men to achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.49 and the women a 3.22 is remarkable," he said. "We place emphasis on the importance of academic success during the recruiting process, and our student-athletes fully embrace this tradition and goal. They're not only pursuing their education but doing so at an exceptional level, all while competing at the highest standards. Their passion for excellence extends beyond the minimum requirements, showcasing their ability to balance academics, athletics and community service. This team tradition is a testament to their drive and character."
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To read the full list of honorees click here for the men, and click here for the women.Â
Alumni Open Recap
Saturday, August 30
Women's Cross Country Season Preview
Thursday, August 28
Men's Cross Country Season Preview
Thursday, August 28
Women's Cross Country A10 Championship Preview
Wednesday, October 30