KANSAS CITY, Mo.— According to a release from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Thursday afternoon, the Montreat College men's cross country team is rated nationally for the 33^rd consecutive poll. This time, the Cavaliers stand tied for 19^th in the NAIA Men's Cross Country Preseason Coaches' Top 25.
 
Montreat totaled 177 points in the voting process, as did Embry-Riddle (Ariz.). The Cavs secured 64 more points than No. 21 Goshen (Ind.) but 42 fewer points than 18^th-rated Dordt (Iowa).
 
Despite dealing with significant adversity due to Hurricane Helene, the Cavs still managed to excel last year. After wrapping up the 2024 AAC Cross Country Championships in second, Montreat went on to place 21^st at the NAIA Cross Country Championships. During the campaign, the Cavaliers were rated as high as No. 10 nationally.
 
For a look at the full 2025 NAIA Men's Cross Country Preseason Coaches' Top 25, click here.
 
Montreat begins its competition slate on Aug. 29 at the Elon Opener. The twilight meet is slated to begin at 8:45 p.m. in Elon, N.C.