USTFCCCA RELEASE
XCRI PORTAL

NEW ORLEANS, La. – On Wednesday, the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) announced the launch of the Cross Country Ratings Index (XCRI), a new objective ranking system for evaluating collegiate cross country athletes and teams throughout the season.

The new XCRI will be updated daily as results are inputted. At the time of the XCRI's launch, the Ohio Wesleyan women's cross country team was ranked 31st nationally. Junior Zoe Ward was also ranked 59th individually.

According to the USTFCCCA, "The XCRI uses a deterministic algorithm that ranks athletes first, then calculates team rankings based on those athlete rankings. The system prioritizes head-to-head race results and common opponent analysis, using a round-by-round "knockout" evaluation process. When direct matchups are limited – particularly early in the season – the system employs a comprehensive statistical model called the Season Composite Score (SCS) to ensure complete rankings."

While the new XCRI will not replace the traditional coaches polls, it will provide a more objective, data-driven view of cross country performance throughout the season.

Next in store for the Bishops is the NCAC Championship on November 1st, hosted by Kenyon in Gambier. Races are set to get underway at 11 a.m.