AUSTIN, Texas – The SIUE track and field team wrapped up competition at the NCAA Division I West Preliminaries Saturday, as the program made history by competing at the meet for the first time ever.
"This group of athletes that competed at this meet was a part of history," Head Coach Kareem Jackson said. "This is something that we can build off of."
Ahmad Evans was the only Cougar athlete competing on Saturday, and he finished 22nd overall in the semifinals of the men's 200 meters in 21.57 seconds.
SIUE sent seven athletes to the meet, and will have one advancing to compete at the final round of NCAA National Championships in Eugene, Ore. June 5-8. La'Derrick Ward will make the trip to Oregon after qualifying to compete in the men's long jump.
In addition to Ward's qualification, Jackson was also excited about the young talent that continues to develop within the Cougars' program.
"Out of the seven athletes who competed this weekend, only two of them are graduating," Jackson said. "You can't put a price tag on experience. I'm very enthusiastic about the future of this program."
Evans, Ward, and Darius Smith competed over the weekend for the SIUE men's team. All three are underclassmen and will return next season. On the women's side, seniors Colleen McDonough and Aftan Noon will say farewell to the program but Jatavia Wright and Elizabeth Hampl will return for the Cougars.
"Each one of these athletes should be excited and proud of their accomplishments this season," Jackson added.
