Holland Reporter

Grand Valley State University's track and field teams have once again demonstrated their dominance in the GLIAC Outdoor Track & Field Championships, held in Allendale, Michigan. The women's team secured their 25th consecutive outdoor title, while the men's team celebrated their 18th overall title, with the women scoring 287 points with 13 individual championships and the men achieving 293.33 points with 16 individual champions.

Shelby Ulven and Alaina Diaz shined for the women's team, with Ulven excelling in the hammer throw and Diaz breaking the long jump record. High jumper Heidi Newhouse, sprinter Addison Washler, and distance runner Klaudia O'Malley were among others who claimed first-place finishes. The women's relay teams also excelled, breaking records in both the 4x100m and 4x400m relays.

On the men's side, Mason Floria and Michael Griffey led in their events, with Floria winning the decathlon and Griffey achieving a personal-best in the hammer throw. Freshmen Luke Jelderks and Dolan Gonzales also made significant contributions, while Conor Somers showcased his mid-distance prowess with wins in both the 1500m and 5000m. The men's relay teams completed their dominance by setting a new program and meet record in the 4x400m relay.

Following the conclusion of the championships, Grand Valley State received several accolades. The men's team swept the major awards, with Michael Griffey earning both the Men's Freshman Field Athlete of the Meet and Men's Field Athlete of the Meet honors. Myles Rhodes was named Men's Track Athlete of the Meet, Owen Westerkamp was awarded Men's Freshman Track Athlete of the Meet, and Conor Somers received the Men's High Point Athlete of the Meet award. The women's team was not far behind, with Alaina Diaz recognized as Women's Field Athlete of the Meet and Addison Washler as Freshman Track Athlete of the Meet.

The Lakers will continue their season with several upcoming meets as they prepare for the National Championships in Pueblo, Colorado, scheduled for late May.