In a tightly contested 32-team field, the Washington University women’s cross country team finished fifth Saturday at the NCAA Division III Cross Country National Championships at the Lake Breeze Golf Club in Oshkosh, Wis.

At the Midwest Regional meet in Chicago, Ill., this past weekend, Washington University men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams both finished fourth. The Bears posted seven B-cut swims, meaning they might qualify for the NCAA Division III Championships.

While the Washington University women’s volleyball team has been a fixture in the NCAA Division III Volleyball Championship for years, this year marks the first time since 1992 that the final rounds of the playoffs will be held at the Wash. U. Field House.
As part of the NCAA Championship City pilot program, created to help cities provide a more enjoyable championship experience for both student-athletes and fans, Wash. U. will partner with neighbor Fontbonne University and the St. Louis Sports Commission to host the finals this year, as well as in 2011.

From 2004 to 2009, the Washington University softball team was synonymous with University Athletic Association conference champion. The Bears had won the championship six years in a row. One too many losses has ended that streak, as Wash. U. tied with Brandeis University for second with a 5-3 conference record.