It is sad to say this is the last of the Big 12 Women's track and field preview. After this season the Big 12 will lose Colorado and Nebraska to the Pac-10 and Big Ten respectively. The new name of the conference has yet to be determined. Nebraska has long had a presence in the conference with there great depth in middle distance and field events. Colorado has been a great distance program producing the likes of Jenny Barringer who owns the American and collegiate record in the women's steeplechase. Those two programs will be missed in the conference.
The Sprints however have dominated the talk of this conference for years. Under Bev Kearney the University of Texas women's track and field program was the dominant program in the conference from 1998-2007. Kearney has coached stars such as Sanya Richards, Raasin McIntosh, Ashlee Williams, Moushami Robinson, Suzainn Reid, Lakiesha Backus, Nichole Denby, Angie Vaughn and other greats. In 2004 Texas A&M decided to change all that by hiring former LSU Head Coach Pat Henry. Henry had won 25 National Championships and has been known as one of the best recruiters of all time for excellence in getting a quantity of great athletes. The past few seasons have been dominated by the sprint core from Texas A&M including 4 straight Big 12 titles, but with Kearney's 2nd ranked recruiting class things may change for the Longhorns.
Sprints & Hurdles
Jeneba Tarmoh of Texas A&M did not really impress last indoor season coming back from a 1 year transfer lay off. The outdoor season was a different story, Tarmoh had a excellent outdoor season with personal bests of 11.19 and 22.65. Tarmoh is a serious threat to win the 60 and 200 meter title and currently has the conference lead with a time of 7.34 ran at the Reville Invitational. Teammate Gabby Mayo will provide a great challenge to Tarmoh in the 60 and will look to defend her double by winning the 60 hurdles as well. Mayo won both events last indoor season with a time of 7.30 in the 60 meter dash and 8.05 in the 60 meter hurdles. Natasha Ruddock and Vashti Thomas also from A&M are to be noticed in the hurdles for the conference crown as well.
In the long sprints Jessica Beard is alone at the top. Beard has been the premier 400 meter runner in the conference her entire career at A&M. I don't expect for that to change. Texas has a deep crop of 400 runners to challenge Beard with Angele Cooper, Stacey Ann Smith, Chantel Malone, Alicia Peterson, Kendra Chambers and true freshman Briana Nelson and Danielle Dowie. Yes all of these young ladies are capable of qualifying for the finals in either the 400 meter or 600 yard races. Cooper, Smith and Peterson are returning All-Conference performers and will be Beard's strongest competition.
Jumps
The high jump has important team points up for grabs. Senior Audrey Svane of Nebraska is the top returning high jumper and will be counted for points for Nebraska who looks to use there strength in the field events to combat the sprint power of Texas A&M and Texas. Texas and Texas A&M have strong competitors in the high jump from Victoria Lucas for Texas and Daphne Fitzpatrick from A&M. Lucas is best challenger to Svane to win the conference title.
In the horizantal jumps senior Chantel Malone of Texas plans to complete the long jump, triple jump double. Malone is the defending champion in the long jump and one of the top returnees in the triple jump. The Longhorns also have true freshman A'Lexus Brannon. Brannon was the nation's best high school athlete in the triple jump and runner up in the long jump. Vashti Thomas of A&M will look to challenge the two Longhorns.
In the pole vault Nebraska looks to earn big team points here. The Cornhuskers return 3 All-Conference athletes in the event including senior Natalie Willer. Shade Weygandt of Texas Tech is the returning champion and should have no trouble winning but Nebraska will earn big team points.
Distance
Lisa Koll of Iowa State was the queen of distance last season after Sally Kipyego of Texas Tech had graduated two seasons ago. Caroline Karunde is the next great distance runner from Texas Tech as the defending champion in the mile and top returnee in the 3,000. Betsy Saina also looks to be the next distance runner from Iowa State as the top returning athlete in the 5,000. Another Karunde, Winrose sister of Caroline looks to challenge Saina for the conference title.
Throws
The Shot Put will likely be a repeat of last season. The Oklahoma Sooners had two freshman finish 1-2 in the conference last season in defending champion Karen Shump and Tia Brooks. Skylar White of Baylor also a sophomore will look to challenge the two Sooners.
The Weight Throw also has a defending champion in Alena Krechyk of Kansas. Chelsie Bonds will be Krechyk biggest threat to repeat as champion.
This looks to be another great year for the Big 12, unfortunately it will the conference's last run. Hopefully it ends with a bang.
Conference Champion: Texas A&M
Next Post: Men's Big 12 Preview.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Big Ten Track and Field Women's Preview
Similar to the men this conference has been a phenomenal distance conference for women. Unlike the men there have been solid sprinters and hurdlers in the past, such as Savetheda Fynes, Perdita Felicien, Tiffany Ofili, Tonja Buford-Bailey, Danielle Carruthers, Rachelle Boone and others. The Big Ten has always traditionally been of the top 2 hurdle conferences with plenty of NCAA Champions, most recently a three peat from Tiffany Ofili from 2007-2009. This season is no different.
Sprints/Hurdles
Shavon Greaves Penn State's one woman wrecking crew may not have to carry so much of a load this year. Redshirt freshman Mahogany Jones is healthy and back to take some of the load away from Greaves and take over after Greaves graduates this season. Greaves is not only a Big Ten favorite but a potential favorite to win the NCAA title as well. Last season Greaves lead the NCAA with a time of 22.98 in the women's 200, the only sub 23 performance last indoor season. Greaves had sub-par outdoor season but will look to continue her success as the dominant Big Ten sprinter. Kylie Peterson of Minnesota and Christina Manning of Ohio State will look to challenge Greaves.
In the women's 400 Shaniqua McGinnis is all that really matters. McGinnis burst onto the scene with a time of 52.65 indoors to win the conference title. McGinnis is definitely the easy favorite to win and defend her conference title. Ashley Kelly of Illinois will be a strong challenger to McGinnins.
The hurdles this season are very difficult to predict. Aleesha Barber has graduated and Charnee Lumbus of Michigan is not going to use her final year of eligibility. Tamika Robinson of Illinois, Manning of Ohio State, Letecia Wright of Ohio State and Julian Purvis are all challengers to win the conference title. Like last season the champion will represent the Big Ten well at the NCAA Championship meet.
Distance
After a lack luster outdoor season Danielle Tauro will look to rebound and put herself individually in the University of Michigan record books. After a stellar high school career many would have expected for Tauro to have earned a individual Big Ten title and All-American honors, but she has not. Tauro has been a great leg on the Distance Medley Relay teams for Michigan and many indoor All-American honors in that event. Tauro had her best championship effort finishing 2nd last indoor season in the women's mile. Tauro is my favorite to win the women's mile and get the no championship monkey off her back. Betsy Flood of Iowa should be Tauro's greatest competition.
Also from Michigan Jillian Smith and Rebecca Addison look to aide the Michigan distance core in the women's 800. Smith is the defending conference champion indoors and missed outdoors due to injury. Expect for the two to try and pull off a 1-2 finish. Kaitlyn Peale of Michigan will be looked upon for points for the Wolverines too, Peale is the top returning 5k runner for the Big Ten and can be considered and early favorite to win. Peale missed the outdoor season due to injury.
Throws
The Pendleton sisters of Michigan look to lead the way in both the weight throw and shot put. In order for them to do that they have to take favorite Faith Sherill of Indiana in the Shot Put and Weight throw down. The Pendleton's had great success last outdoor season winning the women's discus throw, although that event is not done indoors the Pendleton's will look to improve upon their indoor throwing slump of a year ago and show their great talent. Allison Liske of Michigan will also help Michigan in challenging Sherill in the women's shot put.
Jumps
In the women's long jump Todea-Kay Willis of Minnesota and Leah Uber of Purdue should battle for the conference title. Willis won the conference title last outdoor season and Uber finished 2nd. However Kelsey McKinney of Ohio State will look to claim the title herself and add big time points for the Buckeyes. Tofunmi Akeredolu and true freshman and Ohio State record holder Erin Busbee of Michigan can also be considered challengers for the title crown. Akeredolu missed last season due to injury.
McKinney of Ohio State is the top returning performer in the women's triple jump from last season, however the event is still up for grabs with no clear cut favorite Jordan Holgren of Wisconsin and Tanaya Lloyd of Penn State will strongly contest McKinney for the conference crown.
Michigan State's Rebecca Bucholtz is the favorite to win the women's high jump after claiming the conference title last outdoor season. Emily Breslin of Purdue will also look to win the title as well after finishing tied for 3rd last outdoor season.
After the graduation of Alicia Rue Minnesota will look to senior Samantha Sonnenberg to continue Minnesota's winning way in the Pole Vault. Teammate Becca Pilkerton will look to assist Sonnenberg in team points.
Pentathlon
Dorcas Akinniyi of Wisconsin is the defending champion in the event after having scored 3,979 points. Akinniyi now a junior should only improve upon those points and win the conference title. Bucholz of Michigan State will try and challenge Akinniyi for the crown but will have a hard time challenging the defending champ.
CONFERENCE CHAMPION: PENN STATE
CONFERENCE RUNNER UP: MINNESOTA/MICHIGAN
Next Post Big 12 Conference Preview, Women
Sprints/Hurdles
Shavon Greaves Penn State's one woman wrecking crew may not have to carry so much of a load this year. Redshirt freshman Mahogany Jones is healthy and back to take some of the load away from Greaves and take over after Greaves graduates this season. Greaves is not only a Big Ten favorite but a potential favorite to win the NCAA title as well. Last season Greaves lead the NCAA with a time of 22.98 in the women's 200, the only sub 23 performance last indoor season. Greaves had sub-par outdoor season but will look to continue her success as the dominant Big Ten sprinter. Kylie Peterson of Minnesota and Christina Manning of Ohio State will look to challenge Greaves.
In the women's 400 Shaniqua McGinnis is all that really matters. McGinnis burst onto the scene with a time of 52.65 indoors to win the conference title. McGinnis is definitely the easy favorite to win and defend her conference title. Ashley Kelly of Illinois will be a strong challenger to McGinnins.
The hurdles this season are very difficult to predict. Aleesha Barber has graduated and Charnee Lumbus of Michigan is not going to use her final year of eligibility. Tamika Robinson of Illinois, Manning of Ohio State, Letecia Wright of Ohio State and Julian Purvis are all challengers to win the conference title. Like last season the champion will represent the Big Ten well at the NCAA Championship meet.
Distance
After a lack luster outdoor season Danielle Tauro will look to rebound and put herself individually in the University of Michigan record books. After a stellar high school career many would have expected for Tauro to have earned a individual Big Ten title and All-American honors, but she has not. Tauro has been a great leg on the Distance Medley Relay teams for Michigan and many indoor All-American honors in that event. Tauro had her best championship effort finishing 2nd last indoor season in the women's mile. Tauro is my favorite to win the women's mile and get the no championship monkey off her back. Betsy Flood of Iowa should be Tauro's greatest competition.
Also from Michigan Jillian Smith and Rebecca Addison look to aide the Michigan distance core in the women's 800. Smith is the defending conference champion indoors and missed outdoors due to injury. Expect for the two to try and pull off a 1-2 finish. Kaitlyn Peale of Michigan will be looked upon for points for the Wolverines too, Peale is the top returning 5k runner for the Big Ten and can be considered and early favorite to win. Peale missed the outdoor season due to injury.
Throws
The Pendleton sisters of Michigan look to lead the way in both the weight throw and shot put. In order for them to do that they have to take favorite Faith Sherill of Indiana in the Shot Put and Weight throw down. The Pendleton's had great success last outdoor season winning the women's discus throw, although that event is not done indoors the Pendleton's will look to improve upon their indoor throwing slump of a year ago and show their great talent. Allison Liske of Michigan will also help Michigan in challenging Sherill in the women's shot put.
Jumps
In the women's long jump Todea-Kay Willis of Minnesota and Leah Uber of Purdue should battle for the conference title. Willis won the conference title last outdoor season and Uber finished 2nd. However Kelsey McKinney of Ohio State will look to claim the title herself and add big time points for the Buckeyes. Tofunmi Akeredolu and true freshman and Ohio State record holder Erin Busbee of Michigan can also be considered challengers for the title crown. Akeredolu missed last season due to injury.
McKinney of Ohio State is the top returning performer in the women's triple jump from last season, however the event is still up for grabs with no clear cut favorite Jordan Holgren of Wisconsin and Tanaya Lloyd of Penn State will strongly contest McKinney for the conference crown.
Michigan State's Rebecca Bucholtz is the favorite to win the women's high jump after claiming the conference title last outdoor season. Emily Breslin of Purdue will also look to win the title as well after finishing tied for 3rd last outdoor season.
After the graduation of Alicia Rue Minnesota will look to senior Samantha Sonnenberg to continue Minnesota's winning way in the Pole Vault. Teammate Becca Pilkerton will look to assist Sonnenberg in team points.
Pentathlon
Dorcas Akinniyi of Wisconsin is the defending champion in the event after having scored 3,979 points. Akinniyi now a junior should only improve upon those points and win the conference title. Bucholz of Michigan State will try and challenge Akinniyi for the crown but will have a hard time challenging the defending champ.
CONFERENCE CHAMPION: PENN STATE
CONFERENCE RUNNER UP: MINNESOTA/MICHIGAN
Next Post Big 12 Conference Preview, Women
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Big Ten Men's Conference Preview
The Big Ten has been a great conference for decades. Perennial powers Wisconsin, Michigan and Ohio State have remained in the championship picture consistently. Starting fall of 2011 Nebraska will become apart of the Big Ten. Nebraska's mutli-talented program which can excel at every level in track and field will add to the Big Ten's great depth. However this season has its own big story, Wisconsin, they just keep on rolling.
Distance
Distance is what the Big Ten is all about. The conference of the Midwest has many great distance programs in Michigan, Wisconsin, Michigan State, Ohio State, Iowa, Penn State and Minnesota.
Penn State is definitely a contender in the distance events. The Nittany Lions return four athletes who all ran under 1:50 in the men's 800. Seniors Owen Dawson, Lionel Williams and Ryan Foster will look to challenge Casimir Loxsom. Loxsom as a true freshman last season won the big ten outdoor title in the 800. Foster the 2009 800 champion may look to reclaim his title and earn a new title in men's 1,600. Ben Blankenship will be a strong challenger from Minnesota along with Rob Finerty from Wisconsin. The Badgers also look for Mohammed Ahmed to lead a 1-2 finish in the men's 5,000, sophomore standout Maverick Darling will join Ahmed in that effort.
Sprints and Hurdles
The Big Ten has grown by a grand margin in the men's sprints. In the 90's Ohio State dominated the sprints with Chris Nelloms the 1993 NCAA Champion at 200 meters. Ohio State was sprints in the Big Ten during the 90's. Long thought to be just a distance conference the sprint programs in the conference have stepped up to compete on a national level.
This season two Riley's plan to walk away as double champions. Andrew Riley of Illinois stunned everyone by beating Ronnie Ash last season to win the NCAA Outdoor title. Riley completed the double last outdoor season in the 100 meter dash and 110 hurdles at the Big Ten championships. Last indoor season Riley fell short in the men's 60. Expect for Riley to obtain the double by winning the 60 meter dash and 60 meter hurdles with his superior speed. Josh Hembrough of Purdue should be a great challenge.
Steven Wiley of Iowa, no relation to Andrew, hopes to complete the tough double by winning the 400 and 200. Riley claimed the outdoor title in the men's 400 with a 46.12 performance. Riley came up short in the men's 200 to Stephen Robinson of Ohio State. With Robinson gone Riley is clear favorite to claim the title. Thomas Murdaugh of Ohio State is the biggest threat to Riley winning the men's 400 title after having won the event in 2009. Murdaugh also split 44.65 last season to carry the Ohio State 4x400 relay to All-American honors and will be looking to rebound this season.
Jumps
Derek Drouin of Indiana will remain alone at the top in the men's high jump. Drouin had a spectacular season which culminated in a NCAA Championship both indoors and outdoors. Drouin is the easy pick for NCAA Field Athlete of the Year.
Korbin Smith of Ohio State is also a defending Big Ten champion, although not as successful as Drouin, Smith hopes to gain more national recognition this season. Smith won the outdoor title last season with a jump of 24-7. Ironically Robert Peddlar of Michigan was the indoor champion and hopes to defend his indoor title and maybe win the triple jump as well.
Senior Ben Patterson of Minnesota is another defending conference champion in the Men's Pole Vault. Teammate Brock Spandl and Michigan State senior Logan Lynch will challenge Patterson for the crown. Lynch and Spandl are great vaulters in his own right, however it's Patterson title to lose.
Throws
Joe Kovacs of Penn State will look to win the men's shot put as well as the weigh throw. Lonnie Pugh of Michigan State is the true favorite in the men's weight through but Kovacs could be thinking double.
Heptathlon
The Heptathlon had an amazing freshman last season in Jack Szmanda of Minnesota. Szmanda finished second to teammate and defending champion R.J. McGinnis. Szmanda is an early favorite to win the event but will see great competition from Cliff Miller of Michigan State and teammate Spandl.
Next Post: Women's Big Ten Conference Preview
Distance
Distance is what the Big Ten is all about. The conference of the Midwest has many great distance programs in Michigan, Wisconsin, Michigan State, Ohio State, Iowa, Penn State and Minnesota.
Penn State is definitely a contender in the distance events. The Nittany Lions return four athletes who all ran under 1:50 in the men's 800. Seniors Owen Dawson, Lionel Williams and Ryan Foster will look to challenge Casimir Loxsom. Loxsom as a true freshman last season won the big ten outdoor title in the 800. Foster the 2009 800 champion may look to reclaim his title and earn a new title in men's 1,600. Ben Blankenship will be a strong challenger from Minnesota along with Rob Finerty from Wisconsin. The Badgers also look for Mohammed Ahmed to lead a 1-2 finish in the men's 5,000, sophomore standout Maverick Darling will join Ahmed in that effort.
Sprints and Hurdles
The Big Ten has grown by a grand margin in the men's sprints. In the 90's Ohio State dominated the sprints with Chris Nelloms the 1993 NCAA Champion at 200 meters. Ohio State was sprints in the Big Ten during the 90's. Long thought to be just a distance conference the sprint programs in the conference have stepped up to compete on a national level.
This season two Riley's plan to walk away as double champions. Andrew Riley of Illinois stunned everyone by beating Ronnie Ash last season to win the NCAA Outdoor title. Riley completed the double last outdoor season in the 100 meter dash and 110 hurdles at the Big Ten championships. Last indoor season Riley fell short in the men's 60. Expect for Riley to obtain the double by winning the 60 meter dash and 60 meter hurdles with his superior speed. Josh Hembrough of Purdue should be a great challenge.
Steven Wiley of Iowa, no relation to Andrew, hopes to complete the tough double by winning the 400 and 200. Riley claimed the outdoor title in the men's 400 with a 46.12 performance. Riley came up short in the men's 200 to Stephen Robinson of Ohio State. With Robinson gone Riley is clear favorite to claim the title. Thomas Murdaugh of Ohio State is the biggest threat to Riley winning the men's 400 title after having won the event in 2009. Murdaugh also split 44.65 last season to carry the Ohio State 4x400 relay to All-American honors and will be looking to rebound this season.
Jumps
Derek Drouin of Indiana will remain alone at the top in the men's high jump. Drouin had a spectacular season which culminated in a NCAA Championship both indoors and outdoors. Drouin is the easy pick for NCAA Field Athlete of the Year.
Korbin Smith of Ohio State is also a defending Big Ten champion, although not as successful as Drouin, Smith hopes to gain more national recognition this season. Smith won the outdoor title last season with a jump of 24-7. Ironically Robert Peddlar of Michigan was the indoor champion and hopes to defend his indoor title and maybe win the triple jump as well.
Senior Ben Patterson of Minnesota is another defending conference champion in the Men's Pole Vault. Teammate Brock Spandl and Michigan State senior Logan Lynch will challenge Patterson for the crown. Lynch and Spandl are great vaulters in his own right, however it's Patterson title to lose.
Throws
Joe Kovacs of Penn State will look to win the men's shot put as well as the weigh throw. Lonnie Pugh of Michigan State is the true favorite in the men's weight through but Kovacs could be thinking double.
Heptathlon
The Heptathlon had an amazing freshman last season in Jack Szmanda of Minnesota. Szmanda finished second to teammate and defending champion R.J. McGinnis. Szmanda is an early favorite to win the event but will see great competition from Cliff Miller of Michigan State and teammate Spandl.
Next Post: Women's Big Ten Conference Preview
Thursday, December 9, 2010
ACC Indoor Track and Field Men's Preview
Unlike the women of this conference the men's version of the ACC has always been very well rounded. Excellent sprint programs in Florida State and Clemson, great distance programs in North Carolina, Duke and Virginia along with a great conference full of talented athletes in the field events. However the conference has been getting stronger in the sprints and in jumps in the past few years especially from schools such as Florida State. The Seminoles had won three straight NCAA Outdoor titles from 2006-2008. Although the past two years they have been close to regaining that championship form this maybe the season that takes them over the top again. The Seminoles will get the championship start from competition in the conference.
Men's Sprints & Hurdles
Florida State suffered from the lost of Charles Clark to injury, Johnathan Borlee who left early and Brandon O'Connor to undisclosed issues. Maurice Mitchell, Kevin Borlee and Brandon Byram stepped up to continue that great Florida State tradition. Mitchell won the men's 60 meter dash last season. Mitchell is the headline favorite in the men's 60, looking to defend his title against Keith Ricks of Virginia Tech. Mitchell will also be challenged and aided by the return of teammates O'Connor, Bryam and Clark in the men's 200 that could be a 1-2-3-4 sweep for the Seminoles. Borlee will lead the Seminoles in the men's 400 but will be challenged by a deep group of North Carolina Tar Heels. Clayton Parros, Charles, Cox and Ian Williamson will look to again to challenge the Seminoles for long sprint supremacy.
In the men's hurdles it is Clemson, Miami and everybody else. Clemson is returning four All-Conference performers from last season in Spencer Adams, Charlton Rolle, Claudio Carpini, and Marcus Maxey. Returning for the Hurricanes of Miami is Devon Hill who will try and defend his indoor title that he won last season clocking in at 7.78.
Distance
Like the women of this great conference the men have a great distance tradition. Virginia had the recruit of the year last season in Robby Andrews. Andrews won the NCAA Indoor title as a freshman and when many thought he would hit the freshman wall, he didn't. Andrews went on to finish second at the NCAA Outdoor Championship. Andrews personal best of 1:45.54 was the nation's best time last season and Andrews is easily the favorite to repeat as champion. Lance Roller a teammate of Andrews will provide great competition, Roller won the outdoor ACC crown and could upset Andrews in his bid for another indoor crown.
Virginia has another talented middle distance runner in Sintayehu Taye. Taye won the outdoor ACC title and is early favorite to repeat. Teammate Brett Johnson and Michael Hammond of rival Virginia Tech will be strong challengers and could win the conference title themselves. Hammond is especially dangerous to Taye's hopes, Hammond was the indoor conference champion last season. Hammond's teammate William Mulherin is also dangerous, Mulherin won the Penn Relays mile and is the defending outdoor champion at 5,000 meters, he should carry that success indoors as well.
Jumps
It's fair to say that the ACC is one of the three best jumping conferences in the country and could arguably be the best. Senior Madanha Chibudu of Florida State will look to defend his title in the men's long jump. Chibudu has been apart of the Seminoles great staple of jumpers going back to their last championship season. Josh Fowler of Clemson, a senior as well, will contest Chibudu for the conference title and was a great challenge last season.
With Alphonso Jordan gone Austin Davis of North Carolina ND and Marcus Robinson of Virginia both of whom are seniors, will compete for the men's title in the triple jump. There is not a headline favorite since both are capable of winning the title.
In the men's pole vault Hunter Hall looks to aide in helping Virginia Tech sweep again. Last indoor season the Hokies went 1-2-3 with Hall leading the way. Hall is the early favorite to defend his title but teammates Jared Johnson and Yavgeniy Olhovsky will look to win the event themselves. Olhovsky proved to Hall last outdoor season that he is capable of winning the crown by winning it.
Throws
The main event in the throws is always the shot put. With Steve Marcelle gone Michael Putman of Florida State will look to step and take the crown. Putman did not have the greatest indoor performance finishing 7th, however last outdoor season Putman finished 2nd to Marcelle. Alex Padgett of Clemson will also be a contender for the men's shot put crown. Putman's place in this event will have a huge impact on the points race for the conference crown.
CONFERENCE CHAMPION: FLORIDA STATE
RUNNER UP: VIRGINIA
NEXT POST: MEN'S BIG TEN PREVIEW
Men's Sprints & Hurdles
Florida State suffered from the lost of Charles Clark to injury, Johnathan Borlee who left early and Brandon O'Connor to undisclosed issues. Maurice Mitchell, Kevin Borlee and Brandon Byram stepped up to continue that great Florida State tradition. Mitchell won the men's 60 meter dash last season. Mitchell is the headline favorite in the men's 60, looking to defend his title against Keith Ricks of Virginia Tech. Mitchell will also be challenged and aided by the return of teammates O'Connor, Bryam and Clark in the men's 200 that could be a 1-2-3-4 sweep for the Seminoles. Borlee will lead the Seminoles in the men's 400 but will be challenged by a deep group of North Carolina Tar Heels. Clayton Parros, Charles, Cox and Ian Williamson will look to again to challenge the Seminoles for long sprint supremacy.
In the men's hurdles it is Clemson, Miami and everybody else. Clemson is returning four All-Conference performers from last season in Spencer Adams, Charlton Rolle, Claudio Carpini, and Marcus Maxey. Returning for the Hurricanes of Miami is Devon Hill who will try and defend his indoor title that he won last season clocking in at 7.78.
Distance
Like the women of this great conference the men have a great distance tradition. Virginia had the recruit of the year last season in Robby Andrews. Andrews won the NCAA Indoor title as a freshman and when many thought he would hit the freshman wall, he didn't. Andrews went on to finish second at the NCAA Outdoor Championship. Andrews personal best of 1:45.54 was the nation's best time last season and Andrews is easily the favorite to repeat as champion. Lance Roller a teammate of Andrews will provide great competition, Roller won the outdoor ACC crown and could upset Andrews in his bid for another indoor crown.
Virginia has another talented middle distance runner in Sintayehu Taye. Taye won the outdoor ACC title and is early favorite to repeat. Teammate Brett Johnson and Michael Hammond of rival Virginia Tech will be strong challengers and could win the conference title themselves. Hammond is especially dangerous to Taye's hopes, Hammond was the indoor conference champion last season. Hammond's teammate William Mulherin is also dangerous, Mulherin won the Penn Relays mile and is the defending outdoor champion at 5,000 meters, he should carry that success indoors as well.
Jumps
It's fair to say that the ACC is one of the three best jumping conferences in the country and could arguably be the best. Senior Madanha Chibudu of Florida State will look to defend his title in the men's long jump. Chibudu has been apart of the Seminoles great staple of jumpers going back to their last championship season. Josh Fowler of Clemson, a senior as well, will contest Chibudu for the conference title and was a great challenge last season.
With Alphonso Jordan gone Austin Davis of North Carolina ND and Marcus Robinson of Virginia both of whom are seniors, will compete for the men's title in the triple jump. There is not a headline favorite since both are capable of winning the title.
In the men's pole vault Hunter Hall looks to aide in helping Virginia Tech sweep again. Last indoor season the Hokies went 1-2-3 with Hall leading the way. Hall is the early favorite to defend his title but teammates Jared Johnson and Yavgeniy Olhovsky will look to win the event themselves. Olhovsky proved to Hall last outdoor season that he is capable of winning the crown by winning it.
Throws
The main event in the throws is always the shot put. With Steve Marcelle gone Michael Putman of Florida State will look to step and take the crown. Putman did not have the greatest indoor performance finishing 7th, however last outdoor season Putman finished 2nd to Marcelle. Alex Padgett of Clemson will also be a contender for the men's shot put crown. Putman's place in this event will have a huge impact on the points race for the conference crown.
CONFERENCE CHAMPION: FLORIDA STATE
RUNNER UP: VIRGINIA
NEXT POST: MEN'S BIG TEN PREVIEW
Monday, December 6, 2010
ACC Indoor Track and Field Women's Preview
It is amazing how this conference keeps growing over the years. For such a long time the SEC was the premier conference for everything involving sprints, hurdles, jumps and relays. Today the NCAA has become more diverse and each conference has something that they are instantly recognizable for. Outside of having a phenomenal core of distance programs, the ACC is becoming very powerful in the sprints and hurdles. The ACC arguably has the most depth when it comes to hurdling programs. Clemson, North Carolina, Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech, Virginia, and Miami (FL) have shown to be the best hurdle programs in the conference and are among the best in the NCAA. The conference as a whole should be ready for a great year. Let's preview the women's side in preparation for the season.
Sprints and Hurdles
When the topic of sprints in the ACC comes up three programs come to mind all the time, Miami, Florida State and Clemson. Those three programs come up in the discussion regardless of sex. Marecia Pemberton of Florida State flew on to the scene last season by winning the outdoor title in the women's 100 meters with a wind-aided 11.12. During the season Pemberton clocked a personal best at the Florida Relays with a time of 11.20. Clemson had another star freshman in Stormy Kendrick who was the top representative for the United States at the World Junior Championships in the 200 meters in which she would win the World Junior Title. Kendrick finished 2nd in both short sprints last seasons and definitely favored in the 200 and could beat Pemberton in the 60 meter dash.
The 400 maybe the conference's achilles heel, no real threat nationally in this event however there is some solid performers. Ti'erra Brown of Miami is the top returning 400 meter hurdler but she does not openly compete in the 400 meters, Brown however will likely compete in the 400 during the indoor season in preparation for the outdoor season. Along with Brown other 400 hurdles who will compete in the open 400 include teammates and twins Tameka and Takecia Jameson and Brittany Pringley of Clemson maybe the best overall 400 runner.
In the hurdles the University of Miami may have the deepest team in the country. Competing for the Lady Hurricanes in the 60 hurdles will be Brown, the Jameson sisters and Brittney Clarke. Challenging Brown and her teammates could be Latoya James of North Carolina and freshman star Bridgette Owens from Clemson and her teammates Brianna Rollins and Michaylin Golladay.
Jumps
Clemson's April Sinkler pulled a double last outdoor season winning both the High Jump and Long jump at the conference meet. Sinkler's teammate Patricia Mamona is the best challenge to that effort. Mamona won the NCAA Outdoor title in the Triple Jump and was an All-American in the long jump. Kimberly Williams of Florida State looks to interrupt the Clemson jumps dominance by defending her conference title and also provide a challenge in the long jump. Terri Ann Grant of Georgia Tech and Patience Coleman of North Carolina could pose as a potential threat to Sinkler and her goal to repeat as a conference champion in the women's High Jump.
The pole vault is the hands of senior Amy Fryt of Duke. Last outdoor season Fryt was the only athlete in the women's pole vault to reach 4.00 meters. Fryt looks to finally win the indoor title but must be mindful of Amy Morrison and Caroline Kennedy of Clemson who look to claim the title for Clemson and what could be a jumps sweep.
Distance
For so long the ACC was mainly a distance conference with perennial powers, North Carolina, Duke, Florida State, Wake Forest and Virginia producing All-American talent. Although the conference has become amazingly well rounded the conference is still producing All-Americans and NCAA Champions in this area.
On the women's middle distance races North Carolina looks to represent themselves well. In the 800 Dominique Jackson and Tasha Stanley look to contribute a potential 1-2 performance while in the 1,500 Ashley Verplank will have to take over for Brie Felnagle who graduated. Caroline King of Boston College is another potential champion in the women's 800. Katie Van Buskirk of Duke will challenge Verplank for the conference title in the women's 1,500.
Long distance in this conference simply belongs to Wake Forest senior Anna Nosenko who won the Outdoor titles in the 5,000 and 10,000. Clemson's Kimberly Ruck will be the main challenger to Nosenko's long distance dominance after having finished 3rd and 2nd respectively last outdoor season.
Throws
With only two throwing events in the indoor season the impact that the throwing events have on the team title grow more important. Lawanda Henry a junior from NC State is a headliner in both the shot put and weight throw. Henry is the defending champion in the women's weight throw and was the runner-up last indoor season. Henry was able to avenge her indoor loss with an outdoor crown. Henry's chances of performing the double are very high. Maureen Laffan of Virginia the defending champion in the women's shot put will look to repeat to put an end to Henry and her hopes of the double.
Heptathlon
Kiani Profit is the easy pick for champion in the women's indoor pentathlon. Profit is the only returning athlete having scored over 4,000 points, the next best returning athlete did not even reach 3,800 points. Profit's ability to sprint, hurdle and jump well should help easily claim the conference crown and compete for an NCAA title.
Next Post: Men's ACC Conference Preview
Sprints and Hurdles
When the topic of sprints in the ACC comes up three programs come to mind all the time, Miami, Florida State and Clemson. Those three programs come up in the discussion regardless of sex. Marecia Pemberton of Florida State flew on to the scene last season by winning the outdoor title in the women's 100 meters with a wind-aided 11.12. During the season Pemberton clocked a personal best at the Florida Relays with a time of 11.20. Clemson had another star freshman in Stormy Kendrick who was the top representative for the United States at the World Junior Championships in the 200 meters in which she would win the World Junior Title. Kendrick finished 2nd in both short sprints last seasons and definitely favored in the 200 and could beat Pemberton in the 60 meter dash.
The 400 maybe the conference's achilles heel, no real threat nationally in this event however there is some solid performers. Ti'erra Brown of Miami is the top returning 400 meter hurdler but she does not openly compete in the 400 meters, Brown however will likely compete in the 400 during the indoor season in preparation for the outdoor season. Along with Brown other 400 hurdles who will compete in the open 400 include teammates and twins Tameka and Takecia Jameson and Brittany Pringley of Clemson maybe the best overall 400 runner.
In the hurdles the University of Miami may have the deepest team in the country. Competing for the Lady Hurricanes in the 60 hurdles will be Brown, the Jameson sisters and Brittney Clarke. Challenging Brown and her teammates could be Latoya James of North Carolina and freshman star Bridgette Owens from Clemson and her teammates Brianna Rollins and Michaylin Golladay.
Jumps
Clemson's April Sinkler pulled a double last outdoor season winning both the High Jump and Long jump at the conference meet. Sinkler's teammate Patricia Mamona is the best challenge to that effort. Mamona won the NCAA Outdoor title in the Triple Jump and was an All-American in the long jump. Kimberly Williams of Florida State looks to interrupt the Clemson jumps dominance by defending her conference title and also provide a challenge in the long jump. Terri Ann Grant of Georgia Tech and Patience Coleman of North Carolina could pose as a potential threat to Sinkler and her goal to repeat as a conference champion in the women's High Jump.
The pole vault is the hands of senior Amy Fryt of Duke. Last outdoor season Fryt was the only athlete in the women's pole vault to reach 4.00 meters. Fryt looks to finally win the indoor title but must be mindful of Amy Morrison and Caroline Kennedy of Clemson who look to claim the title for Clemson and what could be a jumps sweep.
Distance
For so long the ACC was mainly a distance conference with perennial powers, North Carolina, Duke, Florida State, Wake Forest and Virginia producing All-American talent. Although the conference has become amazingly well rounded the conference is still producing All-Americans and NCAA Champions in this area.
On the women's middle distance races North Carolina looks to represent themselves well. In the 800 Dominique Jackson and Tasha Stanley look to contribute a potential 1-2 performance while in the 1,500 Ashley Verplank will have to take over for Brie Felnagle who graduated. Caroline King of Boston College is another potential champion in the women's 800. Katie Van Buskirk of Duke will challenge Verplank for the conference title in the women's 1,500.
Long distance in this conference simply belongs to Wake Forest senior Anna Nosenko who won the Outdoor titles in the 5,000 and 10,000. Clemson's Kimberly Ruck will be the main challenger to Nosenko's long distance dominance after having finished 3rd and 2nd respectively last outdoor season.
Throws
With only two throwing events in the indoor season the impact that the throwing events have on the team title grow more important. Lawanda Henry a junior from NC State is a headliner in both the shot put and weight throw. Henry is the defending champion in the women's weight throw and was the runner-up last indoor season. Henry was able to avenge her indoor loss with an outdoor crown. Henry's chances of performing the double are very high. Maureen Laffan of Virginia the defending champion in the women's shot put will look to repeat to put an end to Henry and her hopes of the double.
Heptathlon
Kiani Profit is the easy pick for champion in the women's indoor pentathlon. Profit is the only returning athlete having scored over 4,000 points, the next best returning athlete did not even reach 3,800 points. Profit's ability to sprint, hurdle and jump well should help easily claim the conference crown and compete for an NCAA title.
Next Post: Men's ACC Conference Preview
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Blog Update
Sorry for the lack of updates for this month. This has been a personal month for me, growing spiritually was the reason for the absence. It is time to put a pause on the best of series and get ready for the indoor season. The next posting either on December 6 or December 7 I will post a ACC Conference preview as the first of the conference previews prior to the indoor season. The five other conferences include, Big Ten, Big East, Big 12, SEC and Conference USA. I also would like to state that in the future I will have some youtube videos put up as well. Thanks so much for your continued support I look forward to taking this blog to the next level.
Friday, November 5, 2010
THE BEST OF SERIES CONTINUES
Let's continue the best of series with the 400 hurdles and our next post following this category will be in preparation for the upcoming indoor season.
The 400 hurdles can arguably be the most grueling sprint in track and field. It is the sprint version of the steeplechase without the water jump. 10 barriers surround the 400 meter track and the object is cleanly clear each hurdle with great speed and endurance. Not only is this event difficulty physically but technically it is very tough. The United States has had some decent success in the women's 400 hurdles and held the world record in the event for almost a decade thanks to Kim Batten. The one blemish is that the United States has never had a woman win this event at the Olympic Games. There have 3 different silver medalist and 2 different bronze medalist. Although the success has not been golden for the United States the programs in the country help to develop great potentials.
5. Louisiana State University (LSU)- Yes let's all continue to slurp the LSU kool-aid. This an event LSU has not had dominant success but is great at develop the talent they have. The Tigers also have there share of NCAA Champions such as Nickeisha Wilson, Debbie Parris and Schowanda Williams. Shaver has placed an emphasis on the event having developed Nickiesha Wilson into a 53.97 performer to set a school record. Currently on campus for LSU is young talent Cassandra Tate who won the SEC Outdoor title in her first year in the event. Tate is definitely a future great to watch out for along with freshman recruit Jasmine Stowers. The Tigers could potentially have two young All-American 400 hurdlers on their team.
4. South Carolina University- Curtis Frye is widely regarded as one of the best hurdle and 400 meter coaches. His success is well recorded with a list including Olympic Champions and medalists. The 400 hurdles is the one event were he has not had an NCAA Champion but excellent production. A list of All-Americans include Lashinda Demus, Krystal Cantey, Shevon Stoddart and Tiffany Ross-Williams. Currently at South Carolina Janica Austin and star freshman Amber Allen will look to put South Carolina back at the top of the SEC 400 hurdle picture. With Frye's ability to develop his 400 meter runners with a great combination of speed and endurance along with allowing his hurdlers to have great technique and speed it seems as if the 400 hurdles should be Frye's best event, I expect for Allen and Austin to be great hurdlers for the Lady Gamecocks.
3. University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)- I know what you are thinking, isn't this low for the Bruins. Right now I say no. Bobby Kersee is one of the great coaches ever for the 400 hurdles. He has coached plenty of NCAA Champions in this event that have ran for UCLA including Nicole Leach, Sheena Johnson, Joanna Hayes and Janeen Vickers. Throughout Kersee's career has been known as a great coach when it comes to technique especially in the hurdles. Kersee has the rare coaching ability to make this event more about the athletes technique and less about their speed. Turquoise Thompson is the next in line of great 400 meter hurdles from UCLA.
2. University of Miami, FL ( THE U)- Amy Deem program is one very well rounded program, especially in the sprints. Although the Hurricanes do not have the history that all the other programs have but they are definitely the team of the hear and now. The Hurricanes could possibly have a NCAA Champion and 3 All-Americans in this one event alone. Currently on campus is NCAA runner up from 2010 and the USA Outdoor Track and Field champion in 400 hurdles, Tierra Brown. Assisting Brown are All-American twins Takecia and Tameka Jameson. Deem's program has built on the success that Dominique Darden had while attending Miami. Joining this great All-American group is Thandi Stewart the 2nd ranked long hurdler in the country in high school by clocking in at 40.45 and running a 400 in 53.79. Stewart should be a great contributor to the Hurricanes dominance in the 400 hurdles.
1. University of Texas (UT)- Texas has been solid in this event while under Kearney. There have been a total of 6 runners under 56 seconds in school history in the 400 hurdles and multiple All-Americans. Raasin McIntosh, Melaine Walker, Angel Patterson, Tanya Jarrett, Keasha Downer, Alyssa Aiken and Natasha Neal were all stars under Kearney. Walker is definitely the cream of the crop having won a world championship and Olympic Gold medal for her native Jamaica. Kearney has turned Angele Cooper to a developmental 400 meter runner in to a All-American in the 400 hurdles in just two seasons. Cooper also has a solid personal best in the 400 with a time of 52.18 ran last season. Watch for Cooper to compete for the NCAA and Big 12 title. Assisting Cooper with developing a great core of 400 hurdles is Jamaican star freshman Danielle Dowie and Ashley Starks.
The 400 hurdles can arguably be the most grueling sprint in track and field. It is the sprint version of the steeplechase without the water jump. 10 barriers surround the 400 meter track and the object is cleanly clear each hurdle with great speed and endurance. Not only is this event difficulty physically but technically it is very tough. The United States has had some decent success in the women's 400 hurdles and held the world record in the event for almost a decade thanks to Kim Batten. The one blemish is that the United States has never had a woman win this event at the Olympic Games. There have 3 different silver medalist and 2 different bronze medalist. Although the success has not been golden for the United States the programs in the country help to develop great potentials.
5. Louisiana State University (LSU)- Yes let's all continue to slurp the LSU kool-aid. This an event LSU has not had dominant success but is great at develop the talent they have. The Tigers also have there share of NCAA Champions such as Nickeisha Wilson, Debbie Parris and Schowanda Williams. Shaver has placed an emphasis on the event having developed Nickiesha Wilson into a 53.97 performer to set a school record. Currently on campus for LSU is young talent Cassandra Tate who won the SEC Outdoor title in her first year in the event. Tate is definitely a future great to watch out for along with freshman recruit Jasmine Stowers. The Tigers could potentially have two young All-American 400 hurdlers on their team.
School Record Holder:
Nickiesha Wilson 53.97
Nickiesha Wilson 53.97
4. South Carolina University- Curtis Frye is widely regarded as one of the best hurdle and 400 meter coaches. His success is well recorded with a list including Olympic Champions and medalists. The 400 hurdles is the one event were he has not had an NCAA Champion but excellent production. A list of All-Americans include Lashinda Demus, Krystal Cantey, Shevon Stoddart and Tiffany Ross-Williams. Currently at South Carolina Janica Austin and star freshman Amber Allen will look to put South Carolina back at the top of the SEC 400 hurdle picture. With Frye's ability to develop his 400 meter runners with a great combination of speed and endurance along with allowing his hurdlers to have great technique and speed it seems as if the 400 hurdles should be Frye's best event, I expect for Allen and Austin to be great hurdlers for the Lady Gamecocks.
School Record Holder:
Lashinda Demus 54.70
Lashinda Demus 54.70
3. University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)- I know what you are thinking, isn't this low for the Bruins. Right now I say no. Bobby Kersee is one of the great coaches ever for the 400 hurdles. He has coached plenty of NCAA Champions in this event that have ran for UCLA including Nicole Leach, Sheena Johnson, Joanna Hayes and Janeen Vickers. Throughout Kersee's career has been known as a great coach when it comes to technique especially in the hurdles. Kersee has the rare coaching ability to make this event more about the athletes technique and less about their speed. Turquoise Thompson is the next in line of great 400 meter hurdles from UCLA.School & NCAA Record Holder:
Sheena Johnson (Tosta) 52.95
Sheena Johnson (Tosta) 52.95
2. University of Miami, FL ( THE U)- Amy Deem program is one very well rounded program, especially in the sprints. Although the Hurricanes do not have the history that all the other programs have but they are definitely the team of the hear and now. The Hurricanes could possibly have a NCAA Champion and 3 All-Americans in this one event alone. Currently on campus is NCAA runner up from 2010 and the USA Outdoor Track and Field champion in 400 hurdles, Tierra Brown. Assisting Brown are All-American twins Takecia and Tameka Jameson. Deem's program has built on the success that Dominique Darden had while attending Miami. Joining this great All-American group is Thandi Stewart the 2nd ranked long hurdler in the country in high school by clocking in at 40.45 and running a 400 in 53.79. Stewart should be a great contributor to the Hurricanes dominance in the 400 hurdles.School Record Holder:
Ti'erra Brown 54.74
Ti'erra Brown 54.74
1. University of Texas (UT)- Texas has been solid in this event while under Kearney. There have been a total of 6 runners under 56 seconds in school history in the 400 hurdles and multiple All-Americans. Raasin McIntosh, Melaine Walker, Angel Patterson, Tanya Jarrett, Keasha Downer, Alyssa Aiken and Natasha Neal were all stars under Kearney. Walker is definitely the cream of the crop having won a world championship and Olympic Gold medal for her native Jamaica. Kearney has turned Angele Cooper to a developmental 400 meter runner in to a All-American in the 400 hurdles in just two seasons. Cooper also has a solid personal best in the 400 with a time of 52.18 ran last season. Watch for Cooper to compete for the NCAA and Big 12 title. Assisting Cooper with developing a great core of 400 hurdles is Jamaican star freshman Danielle Dowie and Ashley Starks.School Record Holder:
Raasin McIntosh 54.16
Raasin McIntosh 54.16
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
BEST OF SERIES CONTINUES
MEN'S LONG SPRINTS PROGRAMS
As stated in my last post the United States is perhaps the best country at producing long sprinters pre-Usain Bolt. Even though Bolt is the king of the 200 the United States has plenty of youngsters and depth to look forward to. Thanks to some of the great college programs the United States should continue to produce Olympic and world champions. The best programs in my opinion are.....
5. Texas A&M University (TAMU)- I know Texas A&M does not have the history but Texas A&M is definitely the now. Pat Henry has brought the same dominant sprint style program to Texas A&M. In the past couple of years Texas A&M has been very solid in producing champions and All-Americans in the long sprints. Under Henry sprinters such as Chris Dykes, Tabarie Henry, Gerald Phiri, Tran Howell, Bryan Miller, Curtis Mitchell, Michael Preble and Demetrius Pinder. Henry, Phiri, Howell, Miller, Mitchell, Preble and Pinder. Mitchell is the returning indoor Champion and has been an excellent well rounded sprinter. Expect for Mitchell to defend his title along Henry and Pinder vying for the title in the 400. Pinder has gone under 45 seconds and Henry will follow. Mitchell may also be the next great collegiate 200 meter runner to go under 20 seconds. Texas A&M is returning their entire 4x400 NCAA Championship unit and will be challenging LSU'S relay record. While Henry's Aggies are still in the beginning stages with the current state of the program and his solid recruiting efforts watch out for the Aggies this coming season and in the future.
Gerald Phiri
School Record Holder
200 Meters: 20.29
4. University of Southern California (USC)- USC has been one of the best programs for long sprinters in NCAA History. With plenty of NCAA Champions and Olympic Champions that include James Sanford, Quincy Watts, Clancy Edwards, Lennox Miller, Ken Randle and Billy Mullins along with a host of other champions this university has been a shining example of consistent greatness. Under Ron Allice and sprint coach John Henry Johnson the success continues. Under sprint coach John Henry Johnson he has had great success with turning the average sprinter into an All-American and turning a great sprinter into an NCAA Champion. In the 200 Johnson has coached Phillip Francis, Edward Harvey, Wes Felix, Marvin Anderson and Charles Lee. Francis the most successful out of the group with a personal best of 20.39 and sits 4th on the schools all-time list. Johnson helped to develop an injury prone Francis from a 21 second runner to a 20.39. In the 400 Johnson has had success with Lionel Larry, Jerome Davis, Paul Greene, Bryan Krill, Joey Hughes and Reggie Wyatt. Davis an NCAA Champion under Johnson, Larry was runner up in both 2007 and 2008. With a roster full of 400 talent including Hughes, Wyatt and freshman Joshua Mance the Trojans look to keep on moving.
3. Louisiana State University (LSU)- While Pat Henry was the head coach the long sprints was a staple at LSU. Henry made sure to have a competitive group of long sprinters that included 2004 Olympic bronze medalist Derrick Brew in the men's 400. LSU track and field success also began before Pat Henry with Efram Coley who held the school record in the 200 from 1980 to 1996. Dennis Shaver took over the program in 2005 and has done excellent job with his long sprinters. Xavier Carter, Kelly Willie, Richard Thompson, Siraj Williams, Melville Rogers, Reginald Dardar and Armanti Hayes have all succeeded under Shaver. Other greats under Henry include, Alleyne Francique, Pete Cooley, Robert Parham, Curtis Perry, Glenroy Gilbert, Byron Logan and Mike Alridge. LSU has also had phenomenal success in the men's 4x400 relay always competitive at the SEC and NCAA Outdoor and Indoor Championships. LSU is also the current NCAA record holder in the 4x400 relay with a 2:59.59 performance in 2005. The record breaking team includes, Reginald Dardar, Bennie Brazzell, Kelly Willie and Xavier Carter. Current athletes at LSU to keep an eye on include Robert Simmons, Caleb Williams and 2010 Junior College champion Riker Hylton.
2. University of Florida (UF)- It is well documented my love for Mike Holloway. I think he is the best sprint coach in the NCAA. Holloway's success is well documented. Holloway coached Kerron Clement to a indoor world record in the men's 400 at the 2005 NCAA Indoor Championship and also to a collegiate record of 47.56 in the 400 meter hurdles at the NCAA Outdoor Champion the same year. Holloway has a had a multiple athletes earn All-America honors and over the course of his coaching career has made Florida one of the best sprint programs in the country. Great long sprinters under Holloway include John Capel, Bernard Williams, Willie Perry, Aaron Armstrong, Calvin Smith, Rickey Harris, Geno Smith and of course Clement. Perry is an athlete who developed well under Holloway arriving in Gainesville with a personal best of 21.33 and after his junior year had a new personal best of 20.42. The most shocking part of the improvement is Perry never finished the season. Smith and Harris had high school pr's at 46.17 and 46.21 respectively. After four years with Hollway Harris and Smith both have ran under 45 seconds. John Capel is another great example of Holloway's program, as a high school senior Capel clocked a personal best of 21.02 and after 2 years with Hollway had a new personal best of 19.87 the current school record. On campus right now for the Gators are sprinters Tony McQuay, Jovon Toppin, Terrell Wilks, Christian Taylor and freshman Blake Heriot. Although the Gators have lost Calvin Smith they should still be considered a threat in the 4x400 relay and 400 and 200 meter races.
1. Baylor University- Carol Lewis makes this statement every year at the NCAA Outdoor Championships. There is death, taxes and Baylor winning the 4x400 relay. The Baylor Bears have won 10 NCAA titles in the event. Clyde Hart has made Baylor the 400 meter school. The most notable alumnus Michael Johnson 6 time Olympic Gold Medalist and World record holder. While at Baylor Michael Johnson was a star in the men's 200 under Hart winning the NCAA title at the 1990 NCAA Championship. Baylor is also the only school that has more than 10 athletes that have ran under 45 seconds in the men's 400. The top 10 include, Jeremy Wariner, Michael Johnson, Darold Williamson, Raymond Pierre, Brandon Couts, Marlon Ramsey, Raoul Howard, LaJerald Betters, Deon Minor and Zeke Jefferson. Hart requires his athletes to have the perfect blend of speed and endurance needed for a 400 meter runner. In the 200 Trey Harts has a indoor NCAA title after winning the event in 2009. Reggie Witherspoon and Courtney Thomas are two other great 200 meter runners that have had All-American success under Hart. Zwede Hewitt and Marcus Boyd are two athletes to watch at Baylor. These two long sprinters will have to carry the team after losing Harts and Thomas to graduation.
Michael Johnson
School Record Holder
200 Meters: 19.85
I don't think there is any argument who is number 1, it's clearly Baylor. There are a couple teams that I think are also premier programs, Florida State, Arizona State, Oregon and Ohio State. I look forward to big a season in this event both collegiate and professional. Are next topic will either be premier distance programs, top long hurdle programs and or a preview of the upcoming indoor season. Until next time...........................................................................................
As stated in my last post the United States is perhaps the best country at producing long sprinters pre-Usain Bolt. Even though Bolt is the king of the 200 the United States has plenty of youngsters and depth to look forward to. Thanks to some of the great college programs the United States should continue to produce Olympic and world champions. The best programs in my opinion are.....
5. Texas A&M University (TAMU)- I know Texas A&M does not have the history but Texas A&M is definitely the now. Pat Henry has brought the same dominant sprint style program to Texas A&M. In the past couple of years Texas A&M has been very solid in producing champions and All-Americans in the long sprints. Under Henry sprinters such as Chris Dykes, Tabarie Henry, Gerald Phiri, Tran Howell, Bryan Miller, Curtis Mitchell, Michael Preble and Demetrius Pinder. Henry, Phiri, Howell, Miller, Mitchell, Preble and Pinder. Mitchell is the returning indoor Champion and has been an excellent well rounded sprinter. Expect for Mitchell to defend his title along Henry and Pinder vying for the title in the 400. Pinder has gone under 45 seconds and Henry will follow. Mitchell may also be the next great collegiate 200 meter runner to go under 20 seconds. Texas A&M is returning their entire 4x400 NCAA Championship unit and will be challenging LSU'S relay record. While Henry's Aggies are still in the beginning stages with the current state of the program and his solid recruiting efforts watch out for the Aggies this coming season and in the future.
Gerald Phiri
School Record Holder
200 Meters: 20.29
4. University of Southern California (USC)- USC has been one of the best programs for long sprinters in NCAA History. With plenty of NCAA Champions and Olympic Champions that include James Sanford, Quincy Watts, Clancy Edwards, Lennox Miller, Ken Randle and Billy Mullins along with a host of other champions this university has been a shining example of consistent greatness. Under Ron Allice and sprint coach John Henry Johnson the success continues. Under sprint coach John Henry Johnson he has had great success with turning the average sprinter into an All-American and turning a great sprinter into an NCAA Champion. In the 200 Johnson has coached Phillip Francis, Edward Harvey, Wes Felix, Marvin Anderson and Charles Lee. Francis the most successful out of the group with a personal best of 20.39 and sits 4th on the schools all-time list. Johnson helped to develop an injury prone Francis from a 21 second runner to a 20.39. In the 400 Johnson has had success with Lionel Larry, Jerome Davis, Paul Greene, Bryan Krill, Joey Hughes and Reggie Wyatt. Davis an NCAA Champion under Johnson, Larry was runner up in both 2007 and 2008. With a roster full of 400 talent including Hughes, Wyatt and freshman Joshua Mance the Trojans look to keep on moving.James Sanford
School Record Holder
200 Meters: 19.94
School Record Holder
200 Meters: 19.94
Quincy Watts
School & NCAA Record Holder
400 Meters: 43.50
School & NCAA Record Holder
400 Meters: 43.50
3. Louisiana State University (LSU)- While Pat Henry was the head coach the long sprints was a staple at LSU. Henry made sure to have a competitive group of long sprinters that included 2004 Olympic bronze medalist Derrick Brew in the men's 400. LSU track and field success also began before Pat Henry with Efram Coley who held the school record in the 200 from 1980 to 1996. Dennis Shaver took over the program in 2005 and has done excellent job with his long sprinters. Xavier Carter, Kelly Willie, Richard Thompson, Siraj Williams, Melville Rogers, Reginald Dardar and Armanti Hayes have all succeeded under Shaver. Other greats under Henry include, Alleyne Francique, Pete Cooley, Robert Parham, Curtis Perry, Glenroy Gilbert, Byron Logan and Mike Alridge. LSU has also had phenomenal success in the men's 4x400 relay always competitive at the SEC and NCAA Outdoor and Indoor Championships. LSU is also the current NCAA record holder in the 4x400 relay with a 2:59.59 performance in 2005. The record breaking team includes, Reginald Dardar, Bennie Brazzell, Kelly Willie and Xavier Carter. Current athletes at LSU to keep an eye on include Robert Simmons, Caleb Williams and 2010 Junior College champion Riker Hylton.
Derrick Brew
School Record Holder
400 Meters: 44.29
School Record Holder
400 Meters: 44.29
Xavier Carter
School Record Holder
200 Meters: 20.02
School Record Holder
200 Meters: 20.02
2. University of Florida (UF)- It is well documented my love for Mike Holloway. I think he is the best sprint coach in the NCAA. Holloway's success is well documented. Holloway coached Kerron Clement to a indoor world record in the men's 400 at the 2005 NCAA Indoor Championship and also to a collegiate record of 47.56 in the 400 meter hurdles at the NCAA Outdoor Champion the same year. Holloway has a had a multiple athletes earn All-America honors and over the course of his coaching career has made Florida one of the best sprint programs in the country. Great long sprinters under Holloway include John Capel, Bernard Williams, Willie Perry, Aaron Armstrong, Calvin Smith, Rickey Harris, Geno Smith and of course Clement. Perry is an athlete who developed well under Holloway arriving in Gainesville with a personal best of 21.33 and after his junior year had a new personal best of 20.42. The most shocking part of the improvement is Perry never finished the season. Smith and Harris had high school pr's at 46.17 and 46.21 respectively. After four years with Hollway Harris and Smith both have ran under 45 seconds. John Capel is another great example of Holloway's program, as a high school senior Capel clocked a personal best of 21.02 and after 2 years with Hollway had a new personal best of 19.87 the current school record. On campus right now for the Gators are sprinters Tony McQuay, Jovon Toppin, Terrell Wilks, Christian Taylor and freshman Blake Heriot. Although the Gators have lost Calvin Smith they should still be considered a threat in the 4x400 relay and 400 and 200 meter races.
John Capel
School Record Holder
200 Meters: 19.87
School Record Holder
200 Meters: 19.87
Kerron Clement
School Record Holder
400 Meters: 44.57 (i)
School Record Holder
400 Meters: 44.57 (i)
1. Baylor University- Carol Lewis makes this statement every year at the NCAA Outdoor Championships. There is death, taxes and Baylor winning the 4x400 relay. The Baylor Bears have won 10 NCAA titles in the event. Clyde Hart has made Baylor the 400 meter school. The most notable alumnus Michael Johnson 6 time Olympic Gold Medalist and World record holder. While at Baylor Michael Johnson was a star in the men's 200 under Hart winning the NCAA title at the 1990 NCAA Championship. Baylor is also the only school that has more than 10 athletes that have ran under 45 seconds in the men's 400. The top 10 include, Jeremy Wariner, Michael Johnson, Darold Williamson, Raymond Pierre, Brandon Couts, Marlon Ramsey, Raoul Howard, LaJerald Betters, Deon Minor and Zeke Jefferson. Hart requires his athletes to have the perfect blend of speed and endurance needed for a 400 meter runner. In the 200 Trey Harts has a indoor NCAA title after winning the event in 2009. Reggie Witherspoon and Courtney Thomas are two other great 200 meter runners that have had All-American success under Hart. Zwede Hewitt and Marcus Boyd are two athletes to watch at Baylor. These two long sprinters will have to carry the team after losing Harts and Thomas to graduation.
Jeremy Wariner
School Record Holder
400 Meters: 44.00
School Record Holder
400 Meters: 44.00
Michael Johnson
School Record Holder
200 Meters: 19.85
I don't think there is any argument who is number 1, it's clearly Baylor. There are a couple teams that I think are also premier programs, Florida State, Arizona State, Oregon and Ohio State. I look forward to big a season in this event both collegiate and professional. Are next topic will either be premier distance programs, top long hurdle programs and or a preview of the upcoming indoor season. Until next time...........................................................................................
Thursday, September 23, 2010
The Best Of Series Continues...
PART 5: THE LONG SPRINTS ( 200 & 400 METERS) *Women*
These two events are perhaps the two events were the United States have been so dominate. Looking at the many champions in the men's 400, the last time the United States did not win the 400 at the Olympic Games was Moscow in 1980 when our country did not compete. In the 200 the United States is all over the top 10, pre-Bolt the United States had the 4 fastest times of all time in 2007. On the women's side there has been dominance of that level but still great success. In the past couple of years the United States has done an excellent job in developing championship level 400 meter runners compared to the mid to late 90's were the United States were more concerned with beating the Russians in the 4x400 relay than individually. There have been a few college programs that do a great job of developing their 200 and 400 meter runners. Let's look at the top 5.
5. The University of Miami, FL (The U)- Amy Deem is one of the best sprint coaches not only in the United States but in the world she has two well known Olympic medalist to thank for that including Lauryn Williams silver medalist in the women's 100 and Debbie Ferguson in the women's 200 a bronze medalist. Amy Deem has done well with developing great 200 meter runners. Lauryn Hills after just three years was able to improve from running 24.0 to 22.46. Charlette Greggs was able to be a solid double performer running a personal best of 51.65 in the 400 and a personal best 22.85 in the 200. Joining the two was Murielle Ahoure, who coach Deem had the pleasure of only coaching for one season to a personal best of 22.78. Krista Simpkins before she transferred ran a 51.95 in the prelims and a time of 52.16 in the finals to win the NCAA title at the 2008 Indoor Championships proving the Canes can produce quality 400 runners. Deem has solid 400 meter runners currently in Ti'erra Brown, Takecia and Tameka Jameson who are all 400 hurdlers as well. Watch out for Thandi Stewart and Ashton Purvis to add serious depth to the Hurricanes long sprints depth chart, the best is yet to come for Deems stellar program.
200 METER SCHOOL RECORD HOLDER LAURYN WILLIAMS
4. Louisiana State University (LSU)- The school that can be nicknamed as Sprinters U has had solid success and performances in the long sprints. LSU is not just a school for 100 meter sprinters. The Lady Tigers have been able to produce 5 NCAA Champions in the women's 200 meter dash. Those athletes include Dawn Sowell, the NCAA record holder since 1989, Ester Jones ('90), Dahlia Duhaney ('92), Zundria Feagin ('96) and Peta Gaye-Dowdie ('00). Muna Lee did in fact win the women's 200 indoors in 2003 but for these ranking they are solely based on outdoor performances. LaTarsha Stroman has the schools only 400 meter title winning the event in 1997. However the Tigers have had countless All-Americans and 4x400 relay NCAA Champions. LSU holds the NCAA Outdoor Championship meet record with a school record of 3:25.26 and held the NCAA record in the women's 4x200 relay from 2003-2009 as the first women's program to go under 1:30 by clocking a 1:29.78 at the Penn Relays. The school has had sub 51 second performers including school record holder Stroman who ran a time of 50.60, Hazel Ann-Regis is 2nd with a personal best of 50.64 and Nadia Davy with a personal best of 50.66. Current tigers expected to succeed include Kimberlyn Duncan and Takeia Pickney in the women's 200 and Siedda Herbert and Latoya McDermott in the women's 400. With the talented youth on their time the Tigers look to continue their success in the long sprints well into the future.
LSU & NCAA 200 METER RECORD HOLDER: DAWN SOWELL (22.04)
3. Texas A&M University- Although the history at Texas A&M isn't as rich as LSU but Pat Henry has brought his teachings and winning attitude to Texas A&M. Pat Henry is entering his 7th season at and has already won back to back titles with a solid group of sprinters returning. Coach Henry with his assistance of Vince Anderson done an excellent job of developing their 200 and 400 meter runners. Athletes such as Porscha Lucas, Simone Facey, Jeneba Tarmoh, Clora Williams, Jessica Beard and Allison George. Clora Williams the 2006 NCAA Outdoor champion at 400 meters and Simone Facey along Porscha Lucas winning the 200 meters. Facey winning the 200 in 2008 and Lucas winning the 200 in 2009 and 2010. Although the Aggies have lost Lucas to graduation Jeneba Tarmoh is next in line to dominate the 200 for the Lady Aggies. The Aggies can also boast about their new 4x200 relay record which included Beard, Tarmoh, Lucas and Dominique Duncan. The upcoming season watch out for Jessica Beard hopefully she can finally win that title in the women's 400. Still in the early stages the Texas A&M program has already made it's mark with its long sprinters.
Texas A&M SCHOOL RECORD HOLDER:
PORSCHA LUCAS (22.36)
2. South Carolina- You have to hand it to Curtis Frye he turned a program for irrelevant to very relevant. His ability to coach hurdlers have already been discussed. Frye also has done a solid job developing 400 meter runners. His list of athletes and phenoms include Demetria Washington, Mikele Barber, Tiffany Ross, Lashinda Demus, Natasha Hastings, Melisa Barber, Brandi Cross, Stephanie Smith, Tonique Williams, Shalonda Solomon, Eric Whipple and Aleen Bailey. Of these girls Frye has developed multiple NCAA Champions and NCAA record holder. Champions in the 200 include Shalonda Solomon and Aleen Bailey, in the 400 Natasha Hastings and Demetria Washington. Even better stats include the amt of athletes he had that gave under 23 seconds, Solomon, Hastings, Whipple, Bailey, Washington and Barber. Sub 51 second performers include Hastings, Barber twins and Smith. Currently on the Gamecocks roster is Nadonnia Rodrigues she is next great 400 meter sprinter under Frye and possible NCAA Champion in the future.
SCHOOL & NCAA Record Holder at 400 meters:
Natasha Hastings (49.84)
SCHOOL RECORD HOLDER at 200 meters:
Shalonda Solomon (22.36)
1. University of Texas (UT)- Beverly Kearney has been one of the best coaches in track and field the 1980's. Kearney has had success wherever she has gone. When she arrived at the University of Texas she took it to another level, never mind that it was already a national caliber program, Kearney won championships and developed Olympic stars. Kearney has specialized in developing long sprinters. Kearney has won 6 NCAA Outdoor titles in the 4x400 relay since she has been coach at Texas. Her list of phenoms in the 200 and 400 include, Merlene Frazer, Sanya Richards, Nanceen Pery, LaKeisha Backus, Alexandria Anderson, Ashlee Williams, Aminah Haddad, Bianca Knight, Suziann Reid, Toya Brown, LaTashia Kerr, Jerrika Chappele, Nakiya Johnson and Moushami Robinson. As you can see that list is long and doesn't include the current athletes on campus. The 400 meter champions under Kearney (Sanya Richards and Suziann Reid) and the 200 meter champions under Kearney (Frazer, Perry, Knight and Backus-indoors). Knight only competed for Texas for the indoor season running a NCAA record 22.40 indoors and likely could have challenged Dawn Sowell's NCAA outdoor record had she stayed. Currently at Texas, Kearney is loaded with long sprint talent including Kendra Chambers, Angele Cooper, Briana Nelson, Alicia Peterson, Stacey Ann Smith and Chantel Malone. The Lady Longhorns should be a sexy pic for the 4x400 relay title for indoors and outdoors. Briana Nelson is my early season prediction for the freshman Big 12 Athlete of the year.
SCHOOL RECORD HOLDER: Sanya Richards (49.89)
** Next is the Men's long sprint programs. **
These two events are perhaps the two events were the United States have been so dominate. Looking at the many champions in the men's 400, the last time the United States did not win the 400 at the Olympic Games was Moscow in 1980 when our country did not compete. In the 200 the United States is all over the top 10, pre-Bolt the United States had the 4 fastest times of all time in 2007. On the women's side there has been dominance of that level but still great success. In the past couple of years the United States has done an excellent job in developing championship level 400 meter runners compared to the mid to late 90's were the United States were more concerned with beating the Russians in the 4x400 relay than individually. There have been a few college programs that do a great job of developing their 200 and 400 meter runners. Let's look at the top 5.
5. The University of Miami, FL (The U)- Amy Deem is one of the best sprint coaches not only in the United States but in the world she has two well known Olympic medalist to thank for that including Lauryn Williams silver medalist in the women's 100 and Debbie Ferguson in the women's 200 a bronze medalist. Amy Deem has done well with developing great 200 meter runners. Lauryn Hills after just three years was able to improve from running 24.0 to 22.46. Charlette Greggs was able to be a solid double performer running a personal best of 51.65 in the 400 and a personal best 22.85 in the 200. Joining the two was Murielle Ahoure, who coach Deem had the pleasure of only coaching for one season to a personal best of 22.78. Krista Simpkins before she transferred ran a 51.95 in the prelims and a time of 52.16 in the finals to win the NCAA title at the 2008 Indoor Championships proving the Canes can produce quality 400 runners. Deem has solid 400 meter runners currently in Ti'erra Brown, Takecia and Tameka Jameson who are all 400 hurdlers as well. Watch out for Thandi Stewart and Ashton Purvis to add serious depth to the Hurricanes long sprints depth chart, the best is yet to come for Deems stellar program.
200 METER SCHOOL RECORD HOLDER LAURYN WILLIAMS
4. Louisiana State University (LSU)- The school that can be nicknamed as Sprinters U has had solid success and performances in the long sprints. LSU is not just a school for 100 meter sprinters. The Lady Tigers have been able to produce 5 NCAA Champions in the women's 200 meter dash. Those athletes include Dawn Sowell, the NCAA record holder since 1989, Ester Jones ('90), Dahlia Duhaney ('92), Zundria Feagin ('96) and Peta Gaye-Dowdie ('00). Muna Lee did in fact win the women's 200 indoors in 2003 but for these ranking they are solely based on outdoor performances. LaTarsha Stroman has the schools only 400 meter title winning the event in 1997. However the Tigers have had countless All-Americans and 4x400 relay NCAA Champions. LSU holds the NCAA Outdoor Championship meet record with a school record of 3:25.26 and held the NCAA record in the women's 4x200 relay from 2003-2009 as the first women's program to go under 1:30 by clocking a 1:29.78 at the Penn Relays. The school has had sub 51 second performers including school record holder Stroman who ran a time of 50.60, Hazel Ann-Regis is 2nd with a personal best of 50.64 and Nadia Davy with a personal best of 50.66. Current tigers expected to succeed include Kimberlyn Duncan and Takeia Pickney in the women's 200 and Siedda Herbert and Latoya McDermott in the women's 400. With the talented youth on their time the Tigers look to continue their success in the long sprints well into the future.
LSU & NCAA 200 METER RECORD HOLDER: DAWN SOWELL (22.04)
3. Texas A&M University- Although the history at Texas A&M isn't as rich as LSU but Pat Henry has brought his teachings and winning attitude to Texas A&M. Pat Henry is entering his 7th season at and has already won back to back titles with a solid group of sprinters returning. Coach Henry with his assistance of Vince Anderson done an excellent job of developing their 200 and 400 meter runners. Athletes such as Porscha Lucas, Simone Facey, Jeneba Tarmoh, Clora Williams, Jessica Beard and Allison George. Clora Williams the 2006 NCAA Outdoor champion at 400 meters and Simone Facey along Porscha Lucas winning the 200 meters. Facey winning the 200 in 2008 and Lucas winning the 200 in 2009 and 2010. Although the Aggies have lost Lucas to graduation Jeneba Tarmoh is next in line to dominate the 200 for the Lady Aggies. The Aggies can also boast about their new 4x200 relay record which included Beard, Tarmoh, Lucas and Dominique Duncan. The upcoming season watch out for Jessica Beard hopefully she can finally win that title in the women's 400. Still in the early stages the Texas A&M program has already made it's mark with its long sprinters.
Texas A&M SCHOOL RECORD HOLDER:PORSCHA LUCAS (22.36)
2. South Carolina- You have to hand it to Curtis Frye he turned a program for irrelevant to very relevant. His ability to coach hurdlers have already been discussed. Frye also has done a solid job developing 400 meter runners. His list of athletes and phenoms include Demetria Washington, Mikele Barber, Tiffany Ross, Lashinda Demus, Natasha Hastings, Melisa Barber, Brandi Cross, Stephanie Smith, Tonique Williams, Shalonda Solomon, Eric Whipple and Aleen Bailey. Of these girls Frye has developed multiple NCAA Champions and NCAA record holder. Champions in the 200 include Shalonda Solomon and Aleen Bailey, in the 400 Natasha Hastings and Demetria Washington. Even better stats include the amt of athletes he had that gave under 23 seconds, Solomon, Hastings, Whipple, Bailey, Washington and Barber. Sub 51 second performers include Hastings, Barber twins and Smith. Currently on the Gamecocks roster is Nadonnia Rodrigues she is next great 400 meter sprinter under Frye and possible NCAA Champion in the future.
SCHOOL & NCAA Record Holder at 400 meters: Natasha Hastings (49.84)
SCHOOL RECORD HOLDER at 200 meters:Shalonda Solomon (22.36)
1. University of Texas (UT)- Beverly Kearney has been one of the best coaches in track and field the 1980's. Kearney has had success wherever she has gone. When she arrived at the University of Texas she took it to another level, never mind that it was already a national caliber program, Kearney won championships and developed Olympic stars. Kearney has specialized in developing long sprinters. Kearney has won 6 NCAA Outdoor titles in the 4x400 relay since she has been coach at Texas. Her list of phenoms in the 200 and 400 include, Merlene Frazer, Sanya Richards, Nanceen Pery, LaKeisha Backus, Alexandria Anderson, Ashlee Williams, Aminah Haddad, Bianca Knight, Suziann Reid, Toya Brown, LaTashia Kerr, Jerrika Chappele, Nakiya Johnson and Moushami Robinson. As you can see that list is long and doesn't include the current athletes on campus. The 400 meter champions under Kearney (Sanya Richards and Suziann Reid) and the 200 meter champions under Kearney (Frazer, Perry, Knight and Backus-indoors). Knight only competed for Texas for the indoor season running a NCAA record 22.40 indoors and likely could have challenged Dawn Sowell's NCAA outdoor record had she stayed. Currently at Texas, Kearney is loaded with long sprint talent including Kendra Chambers, Angele Cooper, Briana Nelson, Alicia Peterson, Stacey Ann Smith and Chantel Malone. The Lady Longhorns should be a sexy pic for the 4x400 relay title for indoors and outdoors. Briana Nelson is my early season prediction for the freshman Big 12 Athlete of the year.
SCHOOL RECORD HOLDER: Sanya Richards (49.89)** Next is the Men's long sprint programs. **
Monday, September 13, 2010
Best of Series Part 4
THE 100 METER SPRINTER
Let's continue the best of series with the best 100 meter schools for men. I admit it I had a hard time putting this list together. There are so many great programs in the United States that develop great 100 meter sprinters. The five schools I chose have been able to develop their sprinters every year.
5. The University of Southern California (USC)- This was track and field's first sprinting dynasty. In the 60's and 70's USC was known for its great success in sprinting at one point winning 9 straight NCAA titles. A total of 28 titles mostly because of its phenomenal sprint program. The only negative about selecting USC in this list is that they have not had an NCAA Champion in the 100 since 1978 Clancy Edwards. I attribute that to recruiting I have not seen the Trojans recruit that many super 100 meter sprinters out of high school. Its seems to be the goal of USC to develop sprinters around 10.4 to 10.6. Ron Allice is the director of Track and Field at USC but the develop of the sprinters are mainly left up to John Henry Johnson. Prime examples of their great developments are Phillip Francis, Wes Felix, Ahmad Rashad, Garry Jones, Kareem Kelly, Sultan McCullough, Darrell Rideaux, Marvin Anderson and Charles Lee. Four athletes in particular improved dramatically under Johnson's tutelage. Ahmad Rashad improving from 10.56 to 10.10 in just three years. Although Rashad ran faster times in 100 in high school the 10.56 is the only top time he has that wasn't wind-aided. Also keep in mind Rashad could have ran a 10.0 something unfortunately his top time this past season was wind-aided and he also false started at the NCAA Championships. Garry Jones improving from 10.5 to 10.23 in four years although he was injured almost every season. Phillip Francis 10.5 to 10.1 became on of the best ever at USC winning PAC-10 titles in both 100 and 200 in 2006. Finally there is Wes Felix older brother to star Allyson Felix. Wes was not even a finalist in the 100 in High school, although his time of 10.6 was nothing to sneeze at he was mainly known for his 200 speed. By his senior year he improved to a time of 10.2. I wonder what Johnson's program would be like if he would recruit guys running 10.3 and 10.2 already.School Record Holder
James Sanford 10.02
James Sanford 10.02
4. Louisiana State University (LSU) known for its great history in the sport has flourished with 100 meter sprinters with Dennis Shaver. Dare I say it, I think Dennis Shaver is a better sprints coach for men than Pat Henry. Their history is the sprints under Pat Henry was acquiring good depth to put together excellent relays. Recent 100 sprinters including 3 national champions make LSU hard to beat. Xavier Carter in two years went from a 10.3 to a 10.09, Richard Thompson went from a 10.5 to 9.93 and Trindon Holliday went from a 10.3 to a 10.0 while playing football, I wonder what Holliday could have done had he focused on track and field solely. Other great sprinters under Shaver include Kelly Willie and Jerell Hill. Look for Rynell Parson to be another great champion for LSU, Parson sat out last year with an injury.School Record Holder
NCAA Record Holder
Richard Thompson 9.89
NCAA Record Holder
Richard Thompson 9.89
3. University of Florida- It pains to put Mike Holloway this low on the list. Holloway has done a phenomenal job with developing his sprinters. In the 100 meters he has recruited guys running 10.5 and turned them into 10.1 performers. Great performers under Holloway include, Dennis Mitchell, Daymon Carroll, Bernard Williams, John Capel, Willie Perry, Ahmad Jasmine, Kyle Farmer, Jeremy Hall, Terrell Wilks and Jeffrey Demps. Recent stars Jeremy Hall and Terrell Wilks were good athletes in high school but became household names under Hollway. Wilks improving from a 10.6 to 10.1 in the men's 100 and still has his senior season. Hall in three seasons went from 10.44 to 10.08, unfortunately Hall did not have a great outdoor season unable to continue his All-American success individually by only running a 10.3 his senior year. Willie Perry arrived in Gainesville running a 10.52 and in three years was able to run a 10.12 and of course there is school record holder and Olympic medalist Bernard Williams who was able to run a 9.99 under Holloway coming from a 10.08. Holloway unfortunately lost a big recruit in Jeremy Rankin who transferred to Oklahoma, I don't know whether it was the average year he had or the fact that he wanted to be closer to home. I expect for Blake Heriot top incoming recruit to be able to make an early impact as a freshman. Wilks and Demps will have to provide the firepower without Rankin and Hall who graduated. Demps is the defending champion at 100 meters and should be able to repeat.School Record Holder
Bernard Williams 9.99
Bernard Williams 9.99
2. Texas Christian University (TCU)- This school is known for this event the history TCU has had with the 4x100 relay is ridiculous. The athletes read like a who's who. Just some of the greats include, Raymond Stewart, Kim Collins, Jon Drummond, Michael Frater, Donovan Powell, Darvis Patton and Roscoe Tatum just to name a few. Recently TCU has not been the super 100 school it used to be in the 90's but it is still very relevant and doing well under coach Darryl Anderson, they have yet to win a 4x100 relay title but will soon and that is why TCU is number there history and there current sprinters. Current stars include Skye Dawson, Charles Silmon, Mark Barnes and Mychael Dungey. Expect for this group to put together a solid 4x1 performance. Silmon who finished second in the men's 100 at the World Junior meet will be someone to watch for this upcoming season.
School Record Holder
Raymond Stewart 9.97
Raymond Stewart 9.97
1. Florida State University- As a Gator fan it pains me to say this, but it is what it is. The Seminoles have a phenomenal program and have done an excellent job developing their 100 meter sprinters. Cedric Nabe, Walter Dix, Greg Bolden, Michael Ray Garvin, Charles Clark, Derrick Baker, Rhoan Sterling, Ronald Wright, Maurice Mitchell and Brandon Byram and David Ambler. Walter Dix the most notable athlete of all these great sprinters. Dix clocked a 9.93 his junior year to win his second 100 meter title at Florida State. Harden has done an excellent job with the development of his sprinters, footballer Michael Ray Garvin is another great sprinter under Harden with a personal best of 10.1. Currently at Florida State is Mitchell, Ambler and Byram. Those three sprinters should continue the success at Florida State. Mitchell already earning All-American honors in the men's 100 and posting a personal best of 10.11. Keep an eye for Mitchell this coming outdoor season. Mitchell returns as the defending ACC Champion and looks to carry that success to the next level on the national stage.
School Record Holder
Walter Dix 9.93
**Sorry for the long wait, again my computer problems did not go away. The next post will be on 200 meter programs or 400 meter programs no decision as of yet. Thanks for reading. **
Monday, August 23, 2010
Personal Update
Unfortunately my computer has gotten a viurs, I will try to continue my best of series and possibly talk some XC. If I am not able to do that I hope to be back before September thanks for your support.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Best of series Part 3
Well I am back, let's continue our best of series by taking a look at the top 100 meter schools for women and why.
THE BEST 100 METER SCHOOLS FOR WOMEN
5. The University of Miami (FL)- What a great job Amy Deem has done as the coach for the University of Miami. Deem has developed world class talent from nothing and has made phenoms even better. Deem may not recruit a superstar but she has been able make them. Lauryn Williams was a top high school recruit from Pennsylvania and Detroit. Williams arrived on campus with a personal best of 11.53 and with in 3 years Williams ran a personal pest of 10.96 to win a silver medal at the 2004 Olympic Games. She has also developed sprinter Murielle Ahoure into a 100 meter threat with a personal of 11.09. Deem is also the coach of Bahamian sprinter Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie who has a Olympic medalist in the 200 meters and was also a member of the gold medal winning 2000 4x100 meter relay from the Bahamas.
4. University of Southern California- Yes this is one of the most historic sprinting programs in our countries history. Yes in the past the coaching staff has severely underachieved in this event but they have also have had some amazing success stories. For example, Inger Miller, Carol Rodriguez, Alexis Weatherspoon, Natasha Meyers, Torri Edwards, Miya Edmonson, Virginia Powell and Angela Williams the only athlete to win 4 straight times. Joining the Trojans this coming fall are Jessica Davis, Jenna Puterbaugh and Loudia Laarman. Davis has a personal best of 11.45, Puterbaugh of 11.76 and Laarman 11.71. Expect for those 3 to add great depth to a pretty good program. After last season 0 point performance at the NCAA meet expect for the Trojans to avenge themselves especially in the sprints.
3. University of Texas- Bev Kearney is one of the best sprint coaches in the world, she has been to recruit some of the best sprinters in the United States and turn them into even greater sprinters. The names under Kearney say it all, Lakeisha Backus, Nance
en Perry, Marshavette Hooker, Alexandria Anderson, Bianca Knight and Sanya Richards. Yes Richards was a great collegiate 400 runner but don't forget she won the 100 meters at the Big 12 Championship in 2003 and 2004. Kearney did not have strong success in this event last season, but expect Chalonda Goodman to regain her top form after missing part of last season due to injury and performing at average level during the indoor season.
2. Texas A&M University- Pat Henry is bringing his success from LSU to the Aggies and has already won back to back NCAA Championships. However Henry has yet to have that successful 100 meter champion he has been close with several great athletes such as Porscha Lucas, Allison George, Gabby Mayo, Jeneba Tarmoh, Dominique Duncan and Simone Facey. Facey obviously the best athlete under Henry having ran a personal best of 10.95. There is still plenty of talent returning with Mayo, Tarmoh and Duncan including Chandrell Stephens and incoming freshman Ashley Collier. The Aggies cannot take over the top spot until they start developing 100 meter champions, in a matter of time I expect for them to do just that.
1. The most historic program in women's collegiate history is the LSU Lady Tigers. No program has been known for its sprinters than LSU. The NCAA Champions ( Ester Jones, Cheryl Taplin, Sherry Fletcher, Kelly Ann Baptiste and collegite record holder Dawn Sowell). You also have greats, Cheryl Taplin, Zundra Feagin, Peta-Gaye Dowdie (200 NCAA Champion) Muna Lee, Stephanie Durst, Sadonna Thornton, Kwajelin Butler and Juanita Broaddus. There is no doubt during Pat Henry's tenure as the head coach of LSU this is an event that the Tigers consistently excelled in. Now under Dennis Shaver's director the program has not fallen off. Shaver has developed Kelly Ann Baptiste and Sherry Fletcher into champions. Watch for Takeia Pinckey and Kimberlyn Duncan under Shaver these two will be the next great sprinters from LSU.
THE BEST 100 METER SCHOOLS FOR WOMEN
5. The University of Miami (FL)- What a great job Amy Deem has done as the coach for the University of Miami. Deem has developed world class talent from nothing and has made phenoms even better. Deem may not recruit a superstar but she has been able make them. Lauryn Williams was a top high school recruit from Pennsylvania and Detroit. Williams arrived on campus with a personal best of 11.53 and with in 3 years Williams ran a personal pest of 10.96 to win a silver medal at the 2004 Olympic Games. She has also developed sprinter Murielle Ahoure into a 100 meter threat with a personal of 11.09. Deem is also the coach of Bahamian sprinter Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie who has a Olympic medalist in the 200 meters and was also a member of the gold medal winning 2000 4x100 meter relay from the Bahamas.
4. University of Southern California- Yes this is one of the most historic sprinting programs in our countries history. Yes in the past the coaching staff has severely underachieved in this event but they have also have had some amazing success stories. For example, Inger Miller, Carol Rodriguez, Alexis Weatherspoon, Natasha Meyers, Torri Edwards, Miya Edmonson, Virginia Powell and Angela Williams the only athlete to win 4 straight times. Joining the Trojans this coming fall are Jessica Davis, Jenna Puterbaugh and Loudia Laarman. Davis has a personal best of 11.45, Puterbaugh of 11.76 and Laarman 11.71. Expect for those 3 to add great depth to a pretty good program. After last season 0 point performance at the NCAA meet expect for the Trojans to avenge themselves especially in the sprints.
3. University of Texas- Bev Kearney is one of the best sprint coaches in the world, she has been to recruit some of the best sprinters in the United States and turn them into even greater sprinters. The names under Kearney say it all, Lakeisha Backus, Nance
en Perry, Marshavette Hooker, Alexandria Anderson, Bianca Knight and Sanya Richards. Yes Richards was a great collegiate 400 runner but don't forget she won the 100 meters at the Big 12 Championship in 2003 and 2004. Kearney did not have strong success in this event last season, but expect Chalonda Goodman to regain her top form after missing part of last season due to injury and performing at average level during the indoor season.
2. Texas A&M University- Pat Henry is bringing his success from LSU to the Aggies and has already won back to back NCAA Championships. However Henry has yet to have that successful 100 meter champion he has been close with several great athletes such as Porscha Lucas, Allison George, Gabby Mayo, Jeneba Tarmoh, Dominique Duncan and Simone Facey. Facey obviously the best athlete under Henry having ran a personal best of 10.95. There is still plenty of talent returning with Mayo, Tarmoh and Duncan including Chandrell Stephens and incoming freshman Ashley Collier. The Aggies cannot take over the top spot until they start developing 100 meter champions, in a matter of time I expect for them to do just that.
1. The most historic program in women's collegiate history is the LSU Lady Tigers. No program has been known for its sprinters than LSU. The NCAA Champions ( Ester Jones, Cheryl Taplin, Sherry Fletcher, Kelly Ann Baptiste and collegite record holder Dawn Sowell). You also have greats, Cheryl Taplin, Zundra Feagin, Peta-Gaye Dowdie (200 NCAA Champion) Muna Lee, Stephanie Durst, Sadonna Thornton, Kwajelin Butler and Juanita Broaddus. There is no doubt during Pat Henry's tenure as the head coach of LSU this is an event that the Tigers consistently excelled in. Now under Dennis Shaver's director the program has not fallen off. Shaver has developed Kelly Ann Baptiste and Sherry Fletcher into champions. Watch for Takeia Pinckey and Kimberlyn Duncan under Shaver these two will be the next great sprinters from LSU.
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Hello collegiate track and field fans its time that I resume our best of series since there have been a lot of coaching changes and hir... -
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