MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Southern States Athletic Conference coaches picked William Carey to repeat in the 2025 SSAC Women's Cross Country Coaches' Preseason Poll.
The Crusaders claimed the 2024 title and have won three titles all-time. The Toppers also have three titles, while the Roadrunners have won five. One of those three teams has won every championship since 2014.
The season opens Thursday, Aug. 28, with the 2025 SSAC Championship set for Friday, Nov. 7 at Oakville Indian Mounds Park in Danville, Ala.
Ryan McKenzie, William Carey Director of Track & Field/Cross Country: "We're honored to be selected as the preseason No. 1. It's a reflection of the hard work our women's team has put in, and we're excited for the season ahead. We know the competition will be strong, and we wish every team a successful and healthy season."
2025 SSAC Women's Cross Country Coaches' Preseason Poll
1. William Carey – 99 (9)
2. Dalton State – 85 (1)
3. UT Southern – 78
4. Blue Mountain Christian – 76
5. Mobile – 58
6. Loyola – 51
7. Faulkner – 42
8. Brewton-Parker Christian – 24
9. Thomas – 23
10. Abraham Baldwin – 14
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Southern States Athletic Conference coaches picked UT Southern to win the championship in the 2025 SSAC Men's Cross Country Coaches' Preseason Poll.
Mobile won the 2024 title, while the Firehawks return 2024 individual champion Bruno Villazon. William Carey won four-straight titles before last year, while Loyola claimed the top spot in 2019.
The season opens Thursday, Aug. 28, with the 2025 SSAC Championship set for Friday, Nov. 7 at Oakville Indian Mounds Park in Danville, Ala.
Justin Watson, UT Southern Head Coach: "We are humbled and excited to be picked first in the preseason poll. I appreciate the respect from my colleagues and look forward to living up to the expectations set before us. We know there is a difference between deserving and earning and, again, look forward to earning it this season. We are ready!"
2025 SSAC Men's Cross Country Coaches' Preseason Poll
1. UT Southern – 74 (4)
2. Mobile – 70 (4)
3. William Carey – 68 (1)
4. Loyola – 55
5. Blue Mountain Christian – 48
6. Brewton-Parker Christian – 32
7. Faulkner – 26
8. Abraham Baldwin – 20
9. Thomas - 12
