The women’s track and field team claimed three All-Americans at the NCAA Division II Track and Field Championships, which took place at the Birmingham Crossplex in Birmingham, Alabama, March 11-13.
Junior Jada Hoffman was the first Flyer to compete on Friday. She ran the 60 meters with a time of 7.53, hitting personal best and a new school record by .03 seconds. Her time qualified her in third place for the event finals and finished fifth overall, earning First Team All-American honors.
Senior Anna Laudizio and junior Alecea Cardillo made their nationals debut on Saturday in the triple jump event. Lauduzio finished ninth as she achieved a mark of 12.21 meters (40-0.75) in her final jump, enough to secure a spot for the final round. Cardilllo leapt 12.20 meters (40-0.4) in her third. Both Laudizio and Cardillo earned Second Team All-American honors.
This was the first national appearance of all three Flyers. Cardillo shared that it had been a goal of hers since freshman year. “I knew that it was going to be a challenge to get there, so I am very thankful I had even the opportunity to compete indoors this year given the circumstances,” said Cardillo.
Laudizio stated that the experience was very positive for her and her career as a triple jumper. “I was able to compete with confidence and have fun while creating new personal records,” said Laudizio. “There is something so exhilarating and humbling about competing in a field with the best triple jumpers in the nation.”
Hoffman, Cardillo and Laudizio, along with the rest of the women’s track & field team, will continue their outdoor season as they travel to Rolla, Missouri to compete in the Dewey Allgood Invitational hosted by Missouri S&T on March 27.
Photo credit: Luis Chavez / Photographer
