The ESU Spring Open at Welch Stadium will showcase nearly 1,000 athletes from over 30 teams, including half of the MIAA and notable institutions like Grand Valley State and Minnesota State-Mankato. Scheduled for March 27, the event marks the first of five home meets for Emporia State, leading up to the NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships on May 21-23. Emporia State recently excelled at the Jayhawk Spring Fling, securing six event wins and producing several provisional qualifiers for the NCAA Championships. Barbara Bentum notably ran the second-fastest women's 200m time in school history and currently ranks fourth nationally in the event.

By the Numbers
  • Nearly 1,000 athletes scheduled to compete.
  • Six events won by Emporia State at the previous Jayhawk Spring Fling.
State of Play
  • Emporia State men's and women's teams ranked seventh and eighth, respectively, in the MIAA preseason polls.
  • 16 male and 3 female athletes from last year鈥檚 outdoor qualifiers are returning, despite some injuries and graduations.
What's Next

Following the Spring Open, the Hornets will compete in the Midwest Classic on April 3-4, potentially adding to their list of provisional qualifiers for the NCAA Championships.

Bottom Line

The ESU Spring Open serves as a crucial opportunity for athletes to make a mark early in the season, as preparations ramp up for significant championships ahead. Athletes like Barbara Bentum highlight the Hornets' competitive edge as they aim to qualify for national events.