NEW ORLEANS, La. -- Earlier today, the US Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association released their region polls for week four of the fall season. The Sailfish men earned a ninth-place ranking, their highest placement in program history. 

The 'Fish have had a solid year so far this season. They have placed in the top five as a team in three of their four races this year so far, with a first-place finish at the Keiser Flagship Invitational on Sept. 3. Their most recent race, the FSU Invitational, was a solid showing for them as they placed 15th against some NCAA Division I teams as well as top region ranked teams. 

The Sailfish can attribute their success this season to their newcomers as well as some key returners. Freshman Toinou Laigle has been the leading runner for the 'Fish in his early career. He has finished in the top three in two out of the three races he's competed in, including a first-place win at the Keiser Flagship Invitational. Jake Lonsdale has been a key veteran this season with two top-ten finishes to his credit. 

PBA will look to use this ranking as a momentum boost heading into the final few races of this season. They will race again on Oct. 22 for the Alabama Huntsville Invitational.