Track opens season in USTFCCCA poll

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches’ Association released its preseason rankings on Tuesday and Arkansas’ men’s and women’s teams both hold places in the top 25.

The men’s squad is seated at No. 5 and is the second-highest Southeastern Conference school within the rankings, including seven SEC teams total. The Florida Gators are ranked No. 2, the LSU Tigers ninth, the South Carolina Gamecocks are 12th, the Auburn Tigers are No. 15, the Kentucky Wildcats are 17th and the Georgia Bulldogs sit at No. 19.

Head coach Chris Bucknam, in his second season, with assistant coaches Doug Case and Travis Geopfert, welcome back five All-Americans and 23 letterwinners for the 2010 season. Joining the squad will be 27 newcomers.

The women’s squad is seated at No. 17 and is one of five SEC schools in the preseason poll. The LSU Tigers are No. 3, the Florida Gators rank sixth, the South Carolina Gamecocks are seventh and the Tennessee Lady Vols are No. 12.

Head coach Lance Harter, in his 20th season, and assistant coaches Rolando Greene and Bryan Compton welcome back five All-Americans and 17 letterwinners for the 2010 season. Joining the squad will be 11 newcomers.

Arkansas Razorback track and field will begin the 2010 season with the hosting of the Arkansas Invitational on Fri., Jan. 8 at the Randal Tyson Track Center. For more information, visit ArkansasRazorbacks.com.