HARTSVILLE, S.C. – Coming off a record-breaking 2016 season, the Coker College men's track and field team has the bar set high for its 2017 season.
"We want to be in the top six once again for the SAC Championship during the outdoor season," said head coach Benny Morgan." "During the indoor season, we are looking to break some of the team records and springboard into next season, when the SAC has an indoor conference championship."
Looking Back
The Cobras picked up three top-10 finishes last season, including a sixth-place showing at the South Atlantic Conference Championship meet. Coker brought home its first SAC title in the 400-meter hurdles, along with several runner-up and third-place finishes. The Navy and Gold also found itself regionally ranked for the majority of the season. Those accolades against stiff competition showed Morgan that this team can compete at a high level moving forward.
"We brought in some really strong student-athletes and the returners are really starting to figure out what they are capable of doing against good competition," Morgan stated.
What To Look For
14 freshmen, nine sophomores, three juniors and three seniors make up the 2017 edition of the men's track and field team
"Malik Tarbell should be one of our top sprinters, if not out top sprinter," said Morgan. "Our mid-distance crew is strong, as quite a few guys will compete in the 4 x 400 relays. This year our jumps are strong, just as our hurdles were last season."
As for the new faces, Morgan was quick to point out Zafir Abdus-Salaam and Marcus Bryant as freshmen he expects to have an immediate impact. Abdus-Salaam has already etched his name in the Coker record books, breaking the triple jump record in just his first meet and nearly breaking the long jump record.
"Both of those guys are triple, high and long jumpers, both are true freshmen and off to a really good start," said Morgan.
The South Atlantic Conference will release its preseason outdoor poll in March.
The Cobras will be back in action on Feb. 3-4 when they travel to the Camel City Elite Invitational.
To watch the interview with head coach Benny Morgan, click here