BURNSVILLE, Minn. -- The Southwest Minnesota State University men's cross country team was selected to place 14th in the annual NSIC preseason coaches' poll released on Monday.
 
SMSU sophomore, Matthew Groebner, was named an 'Athlete to Watch' this season.
 
"Matthew comes off a strong season that included running the fastest 8,000-meter by a SMSU freshman," said eighth-year SMSU head coach, Kirk Nauman. "His track & field season was highlighted by encouraging 1,500-meter and steeplechase performances. Matthew is a hard worker with grit. I am excited to see the progress he will continue to make as a sophomore."
 
SMSU opens practice on Aug. 24 and will have its first meet on Sept. 4 at the Augustana Twilight.
 
The NSIC Championship will be held on Nov. 7 at Yankton Trails Park in Sioux Falls, S.D.