March 29, 2007

MOBILE, Ala. - The University of Mobile (Ala.) announced today that the school is reinstating the men's and women's cross country programs, with competition beginning in Fall of 2007.

"We are excited to bring back these programs to our University," Vice President of Campus Affairs Mike Blaylock said. "We had to cut them a few years ago and have been looking for a way to bring them back."

The two programs were previously cut after the 2003-04 season, following 14 years of competition at the school, beginning in 1990-91. Interestingly enough, both squads made it to the National Tournament in that first year of competition, which signaled the beginning of two very successful programs.

"Our athletic program has had incredible success, including winning eight National Championships," Blaylock said. "We look forward to the men's and women's cross country programs adding even more accomplishments."

The men's cross country program brought home eight Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Championships and qualified for the NAIA National Tournament 10 of the 14 years.

The women's program was just as successful, earning nine berths to the national tournament and winning eight conference titles. They placed in the top 20 in two of the national tournament appearances.

Between the two programs, the runners garnered 48 All-Conference Awards and were named NAIA All-American three times.

Submitted by Matthew Hicks, University of Mobile