WPU Competes in Final Prep for Nationals

William Penn University Athletics

by Wade Steinlage

Naperville, Ill.–A select few Statesmen track and field athletes tried one last time to punch their tickets for nationals, but unfortunately came up short as William Penn battled at the North Central Dr. Keeler Invitational Thursday and Friday.

Chris Leiba (Jr., Olympia, Wash., Business Management), who had already qualified in the 100-meter dash, placed fourth in the same event in 10.82 seconds and ninth in the 200 in 22.16 seconds.

Joel Brown (Fr., Columbus, Ga.) took sixth in the 200 at 22.13, while Mofiyinfoluwa Alade (So., Hoffman Estates, Ill.) was sixth as well in the high jump at 6-5.5.

Leiba will be joined at nationals by Tristen Elmore (Jr., Ovied, Fla., Physical Education) (100) and Vashti Nwagbaraocha (Sr., Milwaukee, Wis., Exercise Science) (high jump). Leiba and Brown are projected to be half of the men’s 4×100-meter relay squad which will also represent the navy and gold at the NAIA National Championships will be held in Gulf Shores, Ala. on May 23-25.