CLINTON, Miss. — The Mississippi College women's cross country team has earned national recognition, climbing to No. 23 in the latest USTFCCCA NCAA Division II National Rankings after a strong start to the 2025 season.

The Lady Choctaws made their move into the Top 25 following a record-setting performance at the Chile Pepper Festival in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where they competed against some of the best teams in the nation. The ranking marks one of the highest in program history and highlights the steady progress under head coach Joe Snyder.

"I'm extremely proud of how our women have competed and continued to elevate their standard," Snyder said. "They've shown tremendous discipline, confidence, and belief in each other. This recognition is a testament to their hard work and commitment to representing Mississippi College the right way."

The Lady Choctaws have built strong momentum early in the year, notching impressive showings at the Rhodes Invitational and Chile Pepper Festival. They will look to continue that success at the Watson Cross Country Classic on Friday, Oct. 17, as they prepare for the postseason stretch.