NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Portland Pilots Men's Cross Country team has been ranked 16th in the 2024 NCAA Men's Cross Country National Coaches' Poll, as announced by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) on Tuesday. This ranking reflects a significant leap of seven spots from their 23rd place finish in the 2023 season. 

Additionally, the Pilots ranked second in the 2024 NCAA Men's Cross Country West Regional Preseason Rankings. Last season, the Pilots secured third place in the NCAA West Regional Championships, with three runners earning All-Region honors by finishing in the top 25. Among them, Matt Strangio (2nd) and Jona Bodirsky (20th) return to the roster, bringing invaluable experience and talent to the 2024 campaign.  

The Portland Pilots Men's Cross Country team has been selected to finish first in the 2024 WCC Preseason Coaches Poll, sharing the top spot with Gonzaga. This marks the second year in a row that the Pilots have been chosen finish first in the WCC Preseason Polls. Jona Bodirsky, Bradley Peloquin, and Matt Strangio to the 2024 All-WCC Preseason Team, marking the second consecutive year that Peloquin and Strangio have received the honor and the first time for Bodirsky. 

The Pilots will kick off their 2024 season on Saturday, Aug. 31, at the Linfield Harrier Classic in McMinnville, Ore. The women's 4K race begins at 10:00 a.m., followed by the men's event at 10:45 a.m. 

For continuous coverage, visit PortlandPilots.com.