Kearney, Neb. - The Nebraska-Kearney men's cross country team will begin the 2010 season ranked sixth in the ultra tough Central Region.

The USTFCCA (U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association) released its preseason Division II men's and women's region rankings today (August 24th).

The Lopers, led by 2009 NCAA Championships qualifier Tanner Fruit (Ogallala), are one of seven RMAC schools in the Central top ten.

Two-time defending national champ Adams State is first followed by 2009 national runner up Western State and Colorado School of Mines, which finished third at last year's NCAA meet.

Rounding out the top five is Augustana and Metro State. The Vikings placed 10th in Division II last year with the Roadrunners coming in 14th.

In 2009, UNK was nationally-ranked and had its best finish at the conference (fifth) and regional (ninth) meet in nine years.

The complete poll can be found at http://www.ustfccca.org. The Lopers begin its 2010 season Sept. 18th at the Woody Greeno Invite in Lincoln.