CHICAGO (Jan. 6, 2012) - The North Central College men's cross country team received recognition from the State of Illinois' highest office on Thursday, as the Cardinals traveled to Chicago to receive personal congratulations from Governor Pat Quinn for their victory at the 2011 NCAA Division III National Men's Cross Country Championships.

The Cardinals and head coach Al Carius presented Quinn with a signed poster and some North Central College apparel, and Quinn followed by issuing a proclamation declaring Friday, Jan. 6, 2012, as 'North Central College Cardinals Men's Cross Country Day' in the State of Illinois.

“We are extremely proud of the North Central College men's cross country team,” Gov. Pat Quinn said. “They demonstrated great strength, perseverance and character this season and are an inspiration to the runners of Illinois.”

The Cardinals, represented by Matthew Brinkmeier, John Crain, Dan Kerley, Neal Klein, Yonatan Mascote, Matt Perez and Kevin Sparks, won the championship on Nov. 19, 2011 in Winnecone, Wis., claiming the 14th national title in the program's history. Mitch Gilbert, an alternate at the championships, was also on hand for Thursday's ceremony. North Central has won more national championships in men's cross country than any NCAA institution and more than triple the amount of any other Division III team.

North Central College has won more collegiate national titles than any other institution in Illinois and claims a total of 28 team national championships in history, ranking eighth among NCAA Division III institutions and 31st among all NCAA representatives in terms of team national championships won.