NEW ORLEANS—The preseason USTFCCCA Regional Rankings are out and the South Dakota women's cross country team has been picked 15th in the Midwest Region. This marks USD's first time ranked in the preseason since 2019.
 
The Coyotes finished 15th at the NCAA Midwest Regional last November in Iowa City, Iowa. Fourth-year junior Ella Byers paced the way, completing the 6,000-meter course in 21:45.96. Other returning scorers from the meet include third-year sophomore Abrielle Jirele, sixth-year senior Abby Ripperda and fourth-year junior Helen Gould.
 
Both Ripperda and Jirele are returning all-Summit League second team honorees. Ripperda was selected as a Summit League Runner to Watch leading into the fall.
 
South Dakota opens the season Friday evening at the Augustana Twilight held at Yankton Trail Park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.