July 8, 2002

Chicago, Ill. - University of Illinois at Chicago head cross country coach Jim Knoedel has announced the signing of Chicago Farragut High School standout Jose Macias to a National Letter of Intent.

"Jose is a very talented runner and we're glad to have him," said Knoedel. " He will make an immediate impact at UIC."

While the Chicago Public League is not renowned for its distance running exploits, Macias proved to be an exception last fall, as he finished 32nd at the Illinois High School Association Cross Country State Finals following a successful regular season.

Macias, who will also compete for the Flames' track and field squad, joins a solid nucleus of returnees, including seniors Rich Daubert, Joe Marren and Danny Smith, as well as junior Tristan Roche and sophomores Whitney Burns, Graham Waller and Mikhail Davidyan.

The Flames begin their season at the UIC Home Opener on August 31 at 10:00 AM in south suburban Palos Heights.