For the first time ever, Washington University is at the top of the Sports Academy Directors’ Cup standings.
Not only is Wash. U. at the top of the Division III standing for the awards which measures overall excellence in sports, it currently has the most points of any school in Division I, II or III.
Backed by the national championship title of the volleyball team, the ninth in school history, as well as the strong performances of the women’s cross country team and both soccer teams, the Bears have a total of 322 points. Amherst, the current second-place team, has only 291 points.
Standings are calculated by awarding points based on a school’s finish in up to nine men’s and nine women’s sports. The Director’s Cup strives to recognize schools with broad programs that see success in multiple sports.
“It’s a very positive reflection on Wash. U. athletics,” said Athletics Director John Schael. “It sends a good message to high school students where they can get an exceptional education and an excellent athletic experience. We’ve got talented student athletes, excellent coaches and support from the university community.”
Volleyball’s ninth title turned out to be its most impressive as it lost an unheard of five matches this season and beat three teams it had lost to earlier in the final round of tournament play.
The women’s cross country squad crossed the finish third at the NCAA meet. This tied their best finish but produced a new record as three runners took home prestigious awards. Seniors Tricia Frisella, Kate Pentak and Tyler Mulkin received All-America honors. Pentak and Mulkin crossed the line side by side in true team fashion separated by only a second.
The fifth-place men’s soccer team finished the season in a hard fought 2-1 loss to Trinity University in the Elite Eight. Their advance to sectionals and 16 wins this season marked their best season since 1995.
The women’s soccer team finished ninth, following a loss to The College of New Jersey in the Sweet Sixteen, their second consecutive year advancing to that round.
The Red and Green were able to take many tight games throughout the season, which according to Schael, can be attributed to growing fan support.
Overall, the athletic department is very happy with these results.
“We had a strong fall with four top 10 finishes,” said Sports Information Director Chris Mitchell. “It’s nice to be on top.”
The final Division III Fall standings will be released on December 20. “We pretty optimistic,” said Schael.
Current Directors’ Cup standings
1. Washington University, 322 points
2. Amherst College, 291 points
3. Williams College, 286 points
4. Calvin College, 285 points
5. Emory University, 237 points