BURNSVILLE, MN – Following top-three finishes in the conference at both the NSIC Indoor and Outdoor Championships, University of Mary men's track and field was picked to finish 2nd in the Northern Sun's Preseason Coaches' Poll for the upcoming indoor season. It is the highest preseason ranking for UMary since 2019.

The Marauders placed 3rd at the NSIC Indoor Championships last year, moving up three spots on the second day of competition. Returning All-NSIC indoor finishers include Kenny Moxey Jr. (Heptathlon), Gideon Hammah (Mile), and Izaak Kudrna (4x400m Relay).

UMary went on to finish 2nd at the NSIC Outdoor Championships, the program's best finish since 2019.

"Our team ended the year on a high note," said head coach Cale Korbelik. "We look forward to having some athletes back who weren't 100% last year, and our returners appear to be in strong positions to improve on their performances from last year. With notable newcomers, we think it will be a good mix to have a strong team during the season."

Moxey Jr. was highlighted as the Marauders' Field Athlete to Watch. The sophomore from the Bahamas was stellar in his first collegiate season, finishing as the runner-up in both the Heptathlon and the Decathlon at the NSIC Indoor and Outdoor Championships, respectively.

"Kenny was the top freshman in the multi for the conference and nationally in the heptathlon indoor," said Korbelik. "He battled injuries in outdoor but has recovered and looks great in his fall training as he prepares to go for the win at conference and get a spot at nationals indoor. Kenny had a strong summer season competing for the Bahamas in the Decathlon, taking Bronze in the NACAC Track and Field meet."

Junior Xavier Ifill was selected as the Marauders' Track Athlete to Watch. The Barbadian athlete set a school record last indoor season in the 300m, and helped set the 4x400m record. He went on to be named an All-American in outdoor season as a part of the 4x100m Relay.

"Xavier had a breakout season with drastic improvements," said Korbelik. "His strength is his ability to train at a high level and finish strong in races. We look forward to seeing what he can do this year to lead the sprints and relays."

The season begins for UMary on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 5 and 6, at home at the Mike Thorson Open. The meet will be held at the UMary Fieldhouse.

The NSIC Indoor Championships will be held on February 27 and 28 in Mankato, MN.

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