Sterling College Warriors shine at NAIA/JUCO Challenge

Sterling College Warriors demonstrated commendable performances at the NAIA/JUCO Challenge held on Saturday, Jan. 25, at Pittsburg State University. Multiple participants from the track and field team achieved personal bests, with standout performances contributing to the team's overall success.

In the racing events, Janie Perico led the charge with personal bests in both her events. She clocked a time of 6:05.09 in the women's 1 mile, finishing 35th, and 12:19.85 in the 3000m to place 32nd. The men's team saw Daryen Jefferson place 25th in the one mile run with a time of 4:42.99 and 32nd in the 3000m finishing in 9:33.94.

In field events, Chloe Schmidt launched a 10.95m (35-11) throw in the shot put, placing 16th, while The shot put men's division saw Blake Robertson and Malachi Bell taking impressive spots with throws of 13.26m (43-6) for 14th place and 11.77m (38-7.25) for 27th place, respectively. Trey Dixon claimed 15th place with a 6.34m (20-9.5) long jump.

Notably, Maurice Gray excelled in the men's triple jump, not only placing seventh with a jump of 13.72m (45-00) but also meeting the NCCAA national qualifying standard. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Gray and the Warriors' athletics program.

The promising athletes from Sterling College are now gearing up for their next challenge at the Coach Wilson Invitational in Wichita, Kan. on Jan. 30 through Feb. 1. The upcoming event promises another opportunity for the Warriors to display their talent and determination in the competitive field of track and field.