Nov. 15, 2001

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.- - Samford University Head Cross Country/Track & Field Coach Glenn McWaters received his first commitment of the signing period when Homewood (Ala.) High School senior Ty Stanfield signed his official letter of intent Thursday afternoon.

Stanfield is the son of Samford Assistant Cross Country/Track & Field coach Ray Stanfield. Ty was a two-time Texas state champion in cross country (1999-2000) and in the 1600 meters (2000-2001). He was a 2000 All-South Region selection in cross country and finished 11th at the 2000 FootLocker South Race in Charlotte, N.C. Stanfield also was a 2001 pre-season All-American in cross country and is a 2002 pre-season All-American in track.

Stanfield has won 28 high school cross country meets. He is a 3-time All-State selection in Texas for cross country. He was a member of the 2000 state championship cross country team at Canton H.S. in Texas. Stanfield's best times are 1:53 (800 meters), 4:14.33 (1600 meters) and 15:05.80 (5000 meters).

"It's a relief to sign right now. I'm really looking forward to next year. Hopefully, we'll get to nationals next year in cross country," Stanfield said.