(WHEELING, W.VA)---West Virginia Wesleyan seeks the school's 14th WVIAC women's track title in 16 years when the conference's annual championship meet begins on Thursday at Wheeling Jesuit University. On paper, the men's side looks to be a battle between WVWC, WJU, and Concord.
Defending WVIAC Track & Field Athlete of the Year Kayla Johnson should be a major factor for the host Cardinals. Wesleyan's women are led by distance runner Stephanie Hatfield, who ranks seventh nationally in the 10000 meters. 2005 WVIAC Field Athlete of the Year Candace Swann of Charleston earned indoor All-American honors and is favored in shot put, discus, and hammer throws.
West Virginia Wesleyan has claimed the past two men's titles, but this year's battle is expected to be tight. The Bobcats are led by the junior pair of Rico Greenhowe and Josh Natali. Wheeling Jesuit is paced by junior Aaron Rosier, who has already captured the WVIAC decathlon. Concord All-American John Paul Blankenship will provide the Mountain Lions with plenty of points in the field and will pair with a strong corps of jumpers.
The meet concludes on Friday. An event schedule follows:
Click here for Complete schedule of events