New Rochelle, NY - The Iona College men's cross country team is ranked 21st in the 2002 Mondo/NCAA Division I Men's Cross Country Preseason Poll, released today.

The poll, conducted by the United States Cross Country Coaches Association, tabbed the Gaels as the 21st best team in the country. Defending national champion Colorado tops the list, followed by Stanford and Arkansas.

Seniors Peter Riley, and Graeme Reid look to lead the Gaels in their final season in the Maroon & Gold. Senior Brendan Doyle, junior Mark Smyth, and sophomore Sean Connolly round out Iona's top five returnees.

"I'm pleased with our preseason ranking," head coach Mick Byrne said. "I think our achievements and solid showings at the NCAA Championship over the past five years has elevated our program to one of the tops in the country."

The Gaels begin their season on September 7 at the Seawolves Invitational at Sunken Meadow State Park on Long Island. Iona will once again host the Br. Doyle Meet of Champions at Van Cortlandt Park on September 28.