BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The University of West Alabama indoor track & field team opened competition at the GSC Indoor Track & Field Championships in dominant fashion Friday, highlighted by a record-breaking performance from Dedric Hicks.

Hicks delivered a historic throw in the men's shot put, capturing the conference title with a mark of 17.48 meters. The throw not only secured him the title of GSC Indoor Champion, but also set a new personal record and established a new school record for the Tigers.

The victory marks a major milestone for Hicks and the UWA program, as he stood atop the podium as the lone Tiger to finish inside the top three on day one of competition.

Joining him in the event, Jamar Bankhead also turned in a strong performance. Bankhead placed fifth overall with a throw of 15.56 meters, a personal-best mark that added valuable team points for West Alabama.

With a conference champion already crowned and multiple personal records achieved, the Tigers will look to build on their momentum as competition continues at the GSC Indoor Championships tomorrow, Friday, February 20th, with the Tigers first event being at 9:30 AM.