NEWARK, DE --- The University of Delaware men’s cross country team has been cited by the United States Cross Country Coaches Association for the team’s academic achievements during the 2005 season.

The Blue Hens, led by head coach Jim Fischer, were one of 64 NCAA Division I programs to record a team cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (4.0 scale) or better for the fall semester.

Delaware, which ranked 38th overall with a team grade point index of 3.17 among its 16 team members, was honored on the All-Academic Cross Country list for teams that achieved a 3.0 or better mark. Those teams with a 3.25 or better gpa were signified as All Academic with Distinction. Belmont University led all NCAA I teams with a gpa of 3.65 among its eight team members.

Eight members of the Blue Hen team achieved a 3.0 or better gpa during the fall semester, including Matt Bryden (at right), Kevin DuPrey, Erich Komdat, Jeremy Lambert, Sam MacKenzie, Eugene McAuliffe, Mike Roth, Kyle Schmid, and Ryan Ward.

The Blue Hens enjoyed an outstanding season in 2005 as they captured the Delaware Invitational on Oct. 15, placed fourth at the Colonial Athletic Association championships, 12th at the NCAA District 2 championships, and 14th at the IC4A regional championships.