Jets cross country teams finished strong in their first outing and now, in the first national rankings of the NJCAA Cross Country Division II teams, both ranked in the top 10. The Jackson College women's team is ranked eighth and the men's team is ranked 10th after both teams finished third at the Skippers Invitational at St. Clair on Friday. 

Thirteen teams were represented at the invitational which required the runners to have staggered starts due to large numbers of runners. Andy Swihart, who finished in seventh place with a time of 29:24, led the Jets in the men's division. Olivia Hubbard finished in fourth place for the women with a time of 21:45, leading the team to their third-place finish. 

"This race was a great start for both teams and we are looking forward to an amazing season!" said Andrea Ortell, assistant coach.

Cross country teams will next compete Saturday, Sept. 26 at the Jackson College Jets Classic, at home on Central Campus.