Coming off a solid indoor season, the Jumbo jumpers, vaulters and throwers are eager to hit the field for tomorrow's opening outdoor meet, Tufts' Snowflake Classic.
With a skilled squad of throwers returning to the roster for spring competition, including sophomore Paula Dormon and freshman Julia Feltus, the team has reason to believe that they will be able to build on the winter's success.
"Right now we have a strong crew of throwers and a couple new people doing field events," coach Kristen Morwick said. "In outdoor there are more throwing events, so potentially we're in a better position."
The outdoor season brings the addition of the hammer and javelin throws, events in which some of the Jumbos have yet to participate. Still, Morwick expects her team to meet the challenge.
"Julia Feltus does all four throws," Morwick said. "Everyone else will try the hammer. It's an easier event to manage than the weight throw. Our multi-event specialists will do the javelin, which is great. We'll probably have a more diverse and stronger group in throwing events."
The jumps crew will see the return of juniors Jenna Weir and Kaleigh Fitzpatrick in the long and triple jumps, sophomore Kathleen Rutecki and senior Mackenzie Rawcliffe in the triple jump, senior Jess Mactas and freshman Logan Crane in the long jump, junior Joyce Uang in the high and long jumps, and senior Sade Campbell in the high jump.
The pole vaulting squad, which struggled during the indoor season, will consist of sophomores Jen Burg, Katrine Dermody, Jennifer Johnson, Marisa Jones and freshman Christine Stevralia.
Additionally, senior tri-captain Maggie Clary and freshman Kerry Virgien, both of whom competed in the pentathlon at the Div. III New England Champions this winter, will return as multi-event specialists.
-by Carly Helfand
