LOWELL, Mass. – The UMass Lowell women's cross country team was named an "All Academic Team" by the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association.

"They are pretty highly motivated, all we have to do is point them in the right direction," according to UMass Lowell Cross Country Head Coach Gary Gardner.  "They realize the importance of doing well in the classroom and getting an education."

The UMass Lowell women's cross country team was honored after posting a grade point average of 3.68. The team features majors ranging from Public Health and Nursing to Engineering and Business Administration. 

The USTFCCCA honors both those individuals and teams who stood out both academically and athletically. Gardner also was quick to point to the work of UMass Lowell Athletic Academic Coordinator Michael Anderson.

"He's at our pre-season camp and at all of our meets and the kids see that and appreciate what he does and that makes an impact," said Gardner.  "He's built a terrific relationship with the kids and he helps them balance their studies with their training."

Anderson emphasizes the support he receives from the athletic administration and the coaching staff and the reception he receives from the student-athletes helps to build an "inclusive culture" that focuses on making sure each member of the program is supported.

"These awards demonstrate the passion and dedication our student-athletes give each day," said Anderson.  "Our coaching staff recruits some of the brightest and most talented student-athletes available. I could not praise each individual student-athlete enough with the success they've have had, especially in the classroom.  I appreciate Coach Gardner in allowing me to be closely involved with the program at their camp, meets, and even practice.  By being included with the team, outside of the office, advances the mission and culture of 'academic success.'"

Gardner points out that academic success is a point of pride with the team.

"They want to do well, they want to have the highest GPA," said Gardner.  "It's take a great deal of discipline to run 70 to 80 miles a week.  It is that same discipline that helps a person do well in the classroom."

The women's cross country team finished fourth at the America East Championships 15th in a field of 34 schools at the NCAA North East Regional Championships.

Gardner is also quick to point out that the success in competition and in the classroom comes from within the team.

"There is peer pressure," said Gardner.  "They look out for each other in a race and in the classroom."