HARTSVILLE, S.C. – The 2016 season saw the Coker College women's track and field team take several big strides in just its second season, however, it is a talented returning core that has head coach Benny Morgan believing the 2017 campaign will be one to remember.

"We are looking to be in the top three in the South Atlantic Conference outdoor season and potentially between the indoor and outdoor season get girls qualified for the national meet," said Morgan.

Hitting Rewind

The Cobras picked up two top-five finishes last season, to go along with a sixth-place showing at the South Atlantic Conference Championship. The Navy and Gold also had multiple runner-ups and third place finishes at the SAC Championship along with being regionally ranked for the entire season.

Individually, Charity Snelling earned all-region honors during the indoor season, while Noelia Leake, Briana Nixon and Snelling all earned all-region honors during the outdoor season. Leake was also named South Atlantic Conference Runner of the Week in March.

"Not losing any part of last year's women's team is definitely encouraging," said Morgan.

2017 Season

Seven freshman, four sophomores, 14 juniors and one senior make up this season's edition of the Coker women's track and field team.

"Darroneshia Lott is a girl that missed the national cross country meet by one spot and has already set the 800-meter record and is ranked eighth in the 800 as well," said Morgan. "Along with her, we are expecting big things from Leake, Nixon, Snelling, Autumn Walters, Jalecia Williamson and Kaylah Ruff."

In terms of new faces Morgan expects to excel right away, he pointed out Iyonna Mckenzie and Tiffany Taylor.

"Iyonna is a local girl from Latta, she is a sprinter and we are looking for big things from her," said Morgan. "Tiffany Taylor will be more a multi-athlete, so we are looking forward to seeing how she excels at that."

The South Atlantic Conference will release its 2017 outdoor poll in March.

The Cobras will be back in action on Feb. 3-4 when they travel to the Camel City Elite Invitational.