heptathlon.
The sports world is full of coaches who try to lower expectations during the preseason, so WSU coach Steve Rainbolt's optimistic outlook for his men's track and field team is refreshing. "We're really excited," he says. "We feel like we're the team to beat in the Missouri Valley. This could be one of the best teams there's ever been at Wichita State."
Rainbolt has reason for such high expectations. A number of talented athletes return from last year's Missouri Valley Conference outdoor championship men's team, and several newcomers are expected to contribute heavily. Six defending conference champions return to the team. One of them is senior Casey Smith, a two-event champ, winning the shot put and discus. The Norwich, Kan., native was named the conference's Most Outstanding Field Performer and Most Valuable Athlete.
"We want to see him continue to improve on his performances," says John Hetzendorf, an assistant coach who works with the throwers. "As far as his athletic ability goes — I wouldn't say he's maxed out — but that's definitely his strength. We'd like to see him improve on some technical aspects."
The other five defending champions are Michael Colin (steeplechase), Spencer Frame (pole vault), Cory Stock (javelin), Paul Speer (decathlon) and Bruce Swan (200 meters). In addition, the Shockers boast one of the most exciting athletes in the mvc in senior Randy Lewis.
Newcomers to watch include Jesse Grove, a transfer from the University of Houston, in the sprints and Jordan Kitchen in the hurdles and decathlon.
Shocker Women
The women's team placed second in the outdoor mvc championships and has several athletes to watch. Allison Berry, a senior from Towanda, Kan., seeks her fourth conference championship in the javelin. Koya Webb is the defending champ in the heptathlon, and Jackie Brown won the indoor pole vault title last year.
Other top returners are Heidi Yost in jumps and Natasha Foreman in the sprints. Takoya Thomas, a transfer from South Carolina and a former Illinois state champion in the 100-meter dash, is considered a fine sprint prospect.
Such Shocker talent promises an exciting track season, for both WSU men and women.
— Kollen Long
