St. Mary’s (Maryland) will add men’s and women’s cross country as varsity sports this fall, boosting the number of sports it sponsors to 17.

With St. Mary’s action, all nine members of the Capital Athletic Conference will sponsor the sport.

“We’ve had an active cross country club at St. Mary’s for many years, and we are confident that the school can attract talented runners throughout the state and region,” said Scott Devine, director of athletics and recreation.

“St. Mary’s will be appealing to cross country runners because of our outstanding academic institution, favorable fall climate, and the natural beauty of our campus and surrounding areas.”

Devine said the men’s and women’s teams each would participate in five meets, in addition to the Capital Athletic Conference championships.