The Wayne State University Department of Athletics finished 31st nationally out of 295 schools in the NACDA (National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics) Division II Directors' Cup standings which were released last week.  This marks the eighth time in the last nine years that the Warriors have finished in the top 11 percent of all Division II institutions.

"Our student-athletes, coaches and administrators can look back at this NACDA finish and feel good about their national recognition," said Rob Fournier, WSU Director of Athletics.  "To be in the same group as those institutions ranked in the top 10 percent in the nation is a tribute to consistency, hardwork and a balanced success across many programs."

Eight different WSU athletic teams competed in their respective NCAA tournaments this year highlighted by a national runner-up finish by women's swimming and diving (90 points), and a third-place national finish by the men's swimming and diving program (85 points).

The baseball team garnered 64 points by its ninth-place finish, while the golf team accumulated 46 points.

Men's fencing contributed 31 points, while men's basketball, men's tennis and women's tennis each added 25 points to the school's total.

"I have always believed the best measurement of an athletic program is one that combines academics, community outreach and championship success," added Fournier.  "These factors in their totality, tell a lot about our athletic program.  Current and past student-athletes can look with pride on this achievement."

In the first five years (1996-2001) of the Division II Directors' Cup, WSU never finished in the top 100.  However, in each of the last 10 seasons, the Warriors have been ranked in the top 25 percent nationally.