La Crosse, Wis. - Viterbo University cross country coach John Metelko announced Tuesday that Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association State Meet qualifier Dakota Davis (Mohrsville, Penn.), and Firebaugh, California running standout Daniel Beltz will continue their running and academic careers with the V-Hawk's men's program beginning next fall. Davis and Beltz become the sixth and seventhrunners to join the men's cross country team for the 2010-2011.

"Both Dakota and Daniel will have an impact on our program, not only on the course, but also off," said Metelko."On the course, they are exceptional runners who will only get better at the college level. Off of the course, they are both outstanding students who are eager to contribute to our university. I am looking forward to seeing both of them on campus here in the fall."

During his senior year at Schuylkill Valley High School, Davis earned all-county honors in his first season running cross country and qualified for the Pennsylvania State Championship where he finished 71st overall. While at Schuylkill Valley, Davis also lettered four years in wrestling, earning all-state honors his senior year, and lettered one year in track. In track and field competition this spring, Davis is running the 3200 and 1600 meter runs and a leg of the 4 X 800 meter relay for the Panthers.

"Dakota has limited distance running experience, only competing one year in cross country and track in high school, but he has shown the potential to be an outstanding runner at the college level," said Metelko.

Beltz excelled mainly in cross country and track at Firebaugh High School. Beltz earned All-League honors as a sophomore, junior and senior in the West Sierra League for cross country. Beltz was also a three time team MVP in cross Country.Beltz also excels in the classroom, as he has been an Honor Roll student and made the Superintendents List for academic achievement. Besides lettering in cross country and track, Beltz also lettered two years in basketball and one year in football for the Eagles. Beltz will join Firebaugh High School graduate Ramon Martinez (Firebaugh, Calif.) on the men's cross country team.

"Daniel is someone who I think can really make an impact on our men's program," commented Metelko. "He had a good senior season in track, and really has untapped potential on the cross country course with his speed and athleticism".

Beltz and Davis will join a men's cross country team which finished fourth overall in the Midwest Collegiate Conference last season.