Sept. 8, 2009

Center Valley, Pa.--After a strong weekend, Patriot League soccer teams have ascended the national polls. After victories versus George Washington and at No. 19 George Mason in the week's opening season, the American University men's soccer team has been rewarded with a spot in the Soccer America Top 25. The Eagles are currently ranked 23rd in the country. Meanwhile, the American women's soccer team, which has won three straight contests, enters this week's women's Mid-Atlantic Regional rankings at 10th. Navy, which debuted in the women's soccer regional rankings a week ago, climbed to third in the Mid-Atlantic poll after winning the Hurricane Cup in Coral Gables, Fla.

With the two wins over local rivals this past week, the American men's squad captured their fifth D.C. College Cup title in the nine-year history of the tournament. Junior Daniel Shannon was named Tournament Most Valuable Player for his two-goal effort against George Mason. Seniors Cooper Bryant and Luis Martinez, as well as junior David Menzie, were All-Tournament Team honorees. American will next compete on Friday afternoon when it hosts Princeton.

The Navy women's soccer team has started the season unbeaten in six contests. The Mids have won five games, while recording one tie. Navy battled two nationally ranked foes over the weekend, tying Dayton and beating Miami (Fla.) to win the Hurricane Cup. The Mids moved up four spots from last week after entering the poll ranked seventh. Navy will next be in action on Friday against James Madison.

Navy is joined in the women's soccer Mid-Atlantic regional rankings by American. After dropping their season-opener to in-city rival Georgetown, the Eagles have won three straight games, including a 1-0 victory over Richmond on Wednesday. The Eagles will host Maryland on Wednesday.