UConn has hit the rankings again - this time, as the 17th best university in the nation for female student-athletes.

The rankings were announced August 24 by the editors of Sports Illustrated for Women. In ranking the 20 best schools in the nation for female student-athletes, the editors considered a variety of factors, including championships won, varsity and intramural opportunities, recreation programs, graduation rates, facilities, financial aid and fan support.

They apparently did not consider efforts toward Title IX compliance, an area where UConn has taken a lead role.

UConn is the only public university in New England to crack the top 20. The rankings place UConn ahead of the University of Tennessee at number 18 and Duke University at 20.

"A small-time campus means that everybody from the coaches to the trainers refer to themselves as a family, and the students live on essentially agricultural grounds. Intramurals and outdoor adventures (ice climbing,

anyone?) are plentiful, but the Taj Mahal is the student recreational facility, with dual-level cardio and weight rooms; a pool; an indoor track; and five racquetball, two squash and six basketball courts," the editors wrote.

"This is a great statement for the University of Connecticut," said Lew Perkins, director of athletics. "Only two Big East Conference institutions are included in this National Top 20 list (UConn and Notre Dame), which defines the elite colleges and universities for women student-athletes.

"We're pleased to be cited for our efforts in expanding opportunities for women, through our 12 intercollegiate programs as well as our recreational and intramural offerings. This recognition is a credit to the entire University community, to the outstanding leadership provided by President (Philip) Austin and our trustees, and to our coaches and student-athletes."

Richard Veilleux