The Summit League Preseason Poll

ELMHURST, Ill. — The Summit League released its men’s cross country preseason poll Thursday, and South Dakota State has been picked for a first-place finish.

The Jackrabbits attained five of the eight first-place votes decided by the coaches. SDSU overall finished with a total of 46 points.

North Dakota State, which finished second last year at the Summit League Championships, was picked second with 43 points and two first-place votes.

South Dakota was the only other school to receive a first-place vote, as the Coyotes were picked fourth with 32 points.

SDSU will be looking to build off a third-place finish from last season.

The Jackrabbits will be returning two members to their team from the 2010 season. Anthony Bongard and Michael Krsnak, will be competing this year after both runners redshirted last season.

SDSU are eager to welcome back second-team all-Summit member — and newcomer of the championship — Trent Lusignan. Jared Ailts who was another Jackrabbit who received second team honors in 2011, will also be back this season.

Coach Rod DeHaven talked about the honor of being picked first by the league, he mentioned, "It is nice to be mentioned by the league coaches, and there is still a lot of work to be done."

The Jackrabbits will begin their season next Friday (Aug. 31) at the NDSU Open in Fargo, N.D. with a start time of 6 p.m.

Summit League Preseason Poll

1. 46 Points - South Dakota State (5)
2. 43 Points - North Dakota State (2)
3. 33 Points - Kansas City
4. 32 Points - South Dakota (1)
5. 27 Points - IUPUI
6. 21 Points - Oakland
7. 15 Points - Western Illinois
8. 7 Points - Fort Wayne