LIVINGSTON, Ala. — The University of West Alabama men's and women's track and field teams return to action on Saturday, January 17, competing in the Samford Open at the Birmingham CrossPlex. Competition is set to begin at 10 a.m.
The Tigers enter the meet with early momentum after opening their inaugural indoor season with several strong performances at the Birmingham CrossPlex Icebreaker.
On the men's side, Dedric Hicks highlighted the opening weekend by winning the shot put with a personal-best throw of 16.64 meters, establishing a new school record and securing the program's first indoor event victory. Following the performance, Hicks was also named Gulf South Conference Field Athlete of the Week. UWA continued its strong showing in the distance events, with Gary Mata placing third in the 3000 meters (8:50.08) and Julian Councilfinishing 10th (8:55.49). Sprinter Kenneth Beck added a top-eight finish in the 200 meters, crossing in 22.32.
The women's squad showed promising depth in their indoor debut as well. Freshman Adria Burrell opened her collegiate indoor career in the 200 meters, while Kilaya Lucien recorded a 10th-place finish in the 400 meters with a time of 59.44.
With the opening meet under their belts, the Tigers will look to build on those performances at the Samford Open as athletes continue to adjust to the indoor environment and sharpen form early in the season.
