Hamline Men Top Preseason Regional Ranks

According to the pollsters, Hamline University is the men's cross country team to beat in the NCAA's Central Region this fall.

The U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association released its first regional rankings for 2011 in NCAA Division II and III. The poll-topping Pipers are the top-ranked squad in Minnesota across the small college divisions.

Following Hamline in the D3 Central Region men's poll are St. John's at #3 and St. Thomas at #4. Northfield rivals St. Olaf and Carleton are ranked #8 and #9, respectively.

On the women's side of the D3 region, St. Olaf tops Minnesota schools with its #4 ranking. Carleton, St. Thomas, and Gustavus Adolphus follow at #5, #6, and #7, respectively. St. Benedict at #9 and Bethel at #10 round out the poll.

Nebraska Wesleyan is ranked #1 aong women in the Central Region.

Find complete D3 regional rankings HERE.

In NCAA Division II, the University of Minnesota Duluth women pace the state with a #4 ranking. St. Cloud State is ranked #8. Western State of Colorado leads the poll.

Among D2 men, UMD is ranked #8 and Minnesota State, Mankato is ranked #10. Adams State of Colorado tops the poll.

Find complete D2 regional rankings HERE.

National rankings in Division II and III will be released later today.