NAIA Coaches' Poll

Williamsburg, KY - The University of the Cumberlands women's cross country team will begin the 2025 campaign ranked fourth in the NAIA Preseason Coaches' Poll, officials announced Thursday. This is the highest ranking in program history and the second time they have been ranked in the top 5. The Pats were also ranked at the top of the Mid-South Conference. 

UC is coming off a historic 2024 season where they placed sixth at the NAIA National Championships, marking the best team finish in program history. The Patriots also notched three All-American honors at nationals for the first time ever, capping off a year that included their fifth consecutive Mid-South Conference title. 

Among the key returners for UC is Heather Durrant, a 2023 NAIA All-American and MSC First Team All-Conference honoree. Durrant holds the fifth-fastest 5K time in program history (17:49.7) and has earned MSC Runner of the Week honors in each of her first two seasons, continuing to be a reliable leader for the Patriots. 

Graduate student Ashley Terry also returns for UC, bringing championship experience and consistency to the roster. A three-time NAIA qualifier and 2023 MSC Second Team All-Conference selection, Terry has been a steady contributor throughout her career, highlighted by a personal best time of 18:55.8 in the 5K. 

With Durrant, Terry, and a blend of experienced veterans and talented newcomers, the Patriots are positioned to remain a contender on the national stage. 

The top five teams in the poll include Taylor (Ind.), Milligan (Tenn.), The Master's (Calif.), Cumberlands (Ky.), and Saint Mary (Kan.). 

UC will open its season on Friday, August 29, at the Berea/Centre Jamboree in Berea, Kentucky. 

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