
The NMU indoor track and field team wrapped up their 2010-2011 season with only one task left to accomplish. This wasn’t just any task or just another meet. This was the NCAA II Indoor Championships, and it housed the best that the nation had to offer. Junior Bailey Franklin and Freshman Jaime Roberts not only earned the right to compete amongst the nation’s best, but also had a chance to become an All-American.
On Saturday, March 12, Franklin became the second All-American in NMU track and field history as she finished seventh in the triple jump with a leap of 38-10 1/4. She also cleared 5-feet-5-inches in the high jump for 11th place. Franklin said that words couldn’t describe the emotions she felt when she knew what had happened.
“Being an All-American is something that everyone works so hard to get and for me it is a huge honor to have earned it,” Franklin said. “Overall ,the experience was great, and I was very happy with my triple jump.”
Although she is only the second track athlete to earn the All-American status, Franklin said she still has room for improvement.
“I wish my high jump would have been a bit better,” she said. “Right now I’m just moving forward and can’t wait for the outdoor track season to start.”
Head coach Tom Barnes said he was glad he could witness the success they both had.
“Just to get to the Indoor Championships is an honor in itself, they don’t just let anyone come to this meet,” Barnes said. “Both athletes worked so hard this season and they just gave it their all. My coaching staff and I couldn’t be more proud and we expect to see greater things to come.”
On Friday, March 11, Roberts tied for eighth place overall in the pole vault with a distance of 3.75 meters. Roberts was unable to proceed to the next round.
“Being a freshman, it was such a great experience to be here and something I will never forget,” Roberts said. “I know deep down I could have vaulted better, but I just went out there and gave it my best.”
Roberts also said that even though she did not make All-American status, she is looking to improve herself for the upcoming season.
“Right now, I’m just focused on the outdoor season that will be starting up soon and just continue to succeed in whatever I do,” she said.
The outdoor track season will begin on Mar. 26, where the Wildcats will travel to Ripon, Wisc. to compete in the Sherman-Lukoski Invitational.
Barnes said that he is quite anxious to get the outdoor season started and expects great things to come from it.
“Our indoor season was the best we’ve had and the coaching staff and I expect nothing less for the outdoor season as well,” Barnes said. “Most of the indoor track team will be on the outdoor team as well, and we also plan on getting a few more throwers and distance runners. As long as this team continues to have a great attitude and be supportive of one another, nothing will stand in their way of success.”