Aug. 7, 2008

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association have named two of UAB's track stars, Erika Russ and Jacinta Scruggs, to the women's 2008 Division I All-Academic Track & Field team. It was the first time a Blazer, let alone two, were named to the team.

"What an honor it is for these ladies and UAB," said UAB head coach Ray Stanfield.

To qualify for the USTFCCCA All-Academic Track and Field Team, the student-athlete must have compiled a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 and have met either the NCAA Division I Indoor automatic or provisional qualifying standard or the NCAA Division I Outdoor regional or national qualifying standard in their respective event.

Russ, a Hoover native, was the 100-meter hurdles champion at the 2008 Conference USA Outdoor Track & Field Championship.

"Erika finished her career on a tremendous note," said Stanfield. "As C-USA champion in the 100-meter hurdles, then an academic all-American."

Scruggs also took home a championship in the 2008 C-USA Outdoor Track & Field Championship in the 400-meter hurdles.

"Jacinta has started her career in great fashion," said Stanfield "Congratulations to these girls for earning this award."

The USTFCCCA honors Division I individuals for their academic and athletic achievements during the indoor and outdoor track & field seasons. A record total of 468 student-athletes representing 140 Division I institutions composed the women's 2008 All-Academic team.