As the Tigers wrap up their football season on the road against the Murray State Racers this coming Saturday in Murray, KY, the Tennessee State University runners, jumpers, and throwers will be getting ready for the 2014- 15 indoor outdoor track and field season.
Last season concluded with the TSU women’s track team taking home first prize in the 2014 Ohio Valley Conference Indoor Championship giving Coach Chandra Cheeseborough her seventh OVC title. Meanwhile the men’s team placed third, just behind Eastern Illinois University. While the team will return a lot of its runners who know the system, Coach Cheeseborough still encourages the team to stay positive, and to do their personal best throughout the season.
“We’re going to stick to the basics, nothing different than last season, and continue to stay healthy, hungry, and competitive,” said Cheeseborough.
Cheeseborough said that the offseason included what she called a strong fall training by the team which was endurance based and included lots of plyometric workouts. The TSU track team carries high expectations, and while Coach Cheeseborough gives her team the necessary tools and training to be strong competitors, it will be up to sophomore team captain Amber Hughes to not only carry out these high expectations, but also to push the team to and through the finish line.
“I can’t predict how the season will differ, but being in the captain position, I will ensure we work hard and give it our all. With new faces and more talent, I know we will do an amazing job this year in competitions. My expectations are high for the team, as well as for myself. I expect my team to go beyond winning the OVC championship. I want us to make it past regionals and make it to nationals. I know it’s possible, and I’m sure we’re going to get there with dedication and hard work,” said Hughes.
The challenge moving forward may not necessarily be winning the conference as much as it is maintaining that same level of intensity and focus in order to pick up where the team left off and advance.
“No matter who we’re competing against, we’re looking to beat whoever we have to in order to be winners,” said Cheeseborough.
“I’m looking forward to a breakout season. My goal is to not only win the championship in my events, but also have the team win and make to nationals, and most importantly to make my team, Coach Cheeseborough, and everyone that contributed to our team’s success, proud,” said Hughes.
The teams first meet will be held Thursday, December 4, here in Nashville for the Music City Challenge.
