FAIRFAX, Va. – The George Mason University men's cross country team will begin its 2025 campaign this weekend with momentum, entering the year ranked No. 10 in the NCAA Division I Southeast Region Preseason Rankings, announced on August 25 by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA).

The Patriots will officially open the season on Saturday, August 30, at the Spider Alumni Invitational in Richmond, Virginia.

The preseason rankings, which are determined by a regional representative coach in each area, weigh the strength of returning athletes alongside projected team potential. Only USTFCCCA member programs are eligible for consideration, and teams with provisional status within the region may also receive placement.

Mason rises into the top-10 after finishing last season ranked No. 11 in the final 2024 Southeast Region standings. The Patriots will look to build on that progress as they navigate a highly competitive regional slate this fall.

The road to nationals begins with the NCAA Southeast Regional Championships on Friday, November 14, where the top two teams will automatically qualify for the 2025 NCAA Division I Cross Country Championships, scheduled for Saturday, November 22 in Columbia, Missouri.

To view the complete preseason rankings, click here: 2025 NCAA DI Men's Cross Country Regional Rankings – Preseason