BUFFALO, NY - The University at Buffalo track and field program has announced that Peggy Melonic (East Aurora, NY/East Aurora) and Erin Mullaney (Lockport, NY/Lockport) have both signed National Letters of Intent to attend UB beginning in the 2000-2001 academic year.

Melonic, an established distance runner, will come to Buffalo with an impressive athletic resume. Her successful high school career is highlighted by a sixth-place finish at the Footlocker National Cross Country Championships. Melonic also ranked second in the state in the 3000-meter run during her sophomore year. During last year's cross country season, she placed second in the New York State Cross Country Championships.

Mullaney is also an accomplished distance runner. Top performances of her high school career include placing fourth in last year's 3000-meter state final as well as an eighth-place finish in the 1998 New York State Cross Country Championships.

Both of these Section VI runners are among the top recruits in the country and are expected to make positive contributions to the program upon their arrival. Buffalo's distance coach, Vicki Mithchell states, "Melonic and Mullaney are two of the best track and field recruits that have ever committed to UB and they will have an immediate impact on our cross country and track programs." She also says, "Recruitung and signing two local athletes of their caliber will be a tremendous asset to our team and program since they both have the potential to be big scorers in the Mid-American Conference."

Head Coach Dick Barry adds, "I'm not sure if people realize that New York State is among the top states in track and field along with Texas and California." He also states, "The addition of Melonic and Mullaney can take our team to the next level."

Buffalo's current track and field and cross country rosters include 16 student-athletes from the Greater Buffalo area.