FARMINGTON, Utah – Preseason cross country rankings were released on Wednesday with both of Idaho's squads taking fifth overall.  Northern Arizona was the resounding favorite on both sides.
 
The women took fourth at last year's Big Sky Cross Country Championships, while the men finished sixth.  The 2019 Big Sky Championships will take place in Greeley, Colo., on Saturday, Nov. 2.
 
Despite losing some highly decorated student-athletes to graduation, the Vandals return two very talented rosters for the 2019 campaign.  Five of the top seven finishers at last year's Big Sky Championships are back.
 
The 2019 schedule features a number of local meets.  The Vandals get started on Saturday, Aug. 31 at the annual Clash of the Inland Northwest, this year taking place in Cheney, Wash.  The Vandals won't travel far from home during the regular season, with the farthest trip going to the Bill Dellinger Invitational in Marcola, Ore.
 
To stay current on all Vandal Athletics visit GoVandals.com, or follow the Vandals on Twitter, @Idaho_Vandals.
 
Fans can stay up-to-date on all things Idaho track and field/cross country by following the team on Twitter @IdahoTrack.
 
Men's Preseason Poll
1. Northern Arizona (11) – 121
2. Southern Utah - 99
3. Weber State - 98
4. Montana State – 84
5. Idaho – 73
6. Idaho State – 65
7. Northern Colorado – 50
8. Portland State – 40
9. Eastern Washington – 38
10. Sacramento State – 34
11. Montana - 24
 
Women's Preseason Poll
1. Northern Arizona (9) – 119
2. Southern Utah (2) – 99
3. Weber State – 91
4. Montana State – 83
5. Idaho – 78
6. Montana – 59
7. Idaho State – 54
T8. Portland State – 46
T8. Sacramento State – 46
10. Eastern Washington – 31
11. Northern Colorado - 20