CARBONDALE, Ill.- William Woods University Track and Field kicked off their indoor season this past weekend with a stellar performance at the SIU Fast Start hosted by Southern Illinois University. The Owls, who were the only NAIA team competing, turned heads with their performances on both the track and in field events.  

Standouts for the men include Jasper DeGraffenreid, who achieved a third-place finish in the shotput, and Jenson Starr who led the pack in the 5000m. "Jasper and Jenson are two young men that are the pinnacle of what we are looking for in our program." added coach Tucker Coleman. "These two set a great example to the rest of our athletes that hard work does pay off and there is no surprise that they performed as well as they did this weekend leading our Owls." Finishing behind Starr in the 5000m was fellow WWU standout Sean Wigger, who ran a 16:13.78. 

For the women, William Woods' distance runners continue to set the standard with star Sarah Kirby earning a first-place finish with a time of 18:57.40. Allison Kenneavy placed 11th of 19 total throwers in the shot, while freshman Sarah Backes earned an impressive third place finish in the high jump. "This young woman has battled numerous challenges throughout the season and has worked hard every day." said coach Jacob Polacek. "Also, I want to praise De'Prisha Chatman. She is a sophomore that has quickly become a leader for our jumps team and continues to make strides early on in her career as an Owl."  

Full Results

William Woods Track and Field opens the second semester at Northwest Missouri State in Maryville, Mo., on January 15th.