Frogs start outdoor season
Teams not fearful of travel during outbreak of war
By Shelli Manchaca
Skiff Staff

As the men’s and women’s track teams bus to Waco this weekend to begin their outdoor season, unease looms as the United States continues to fight in Iraq. However, the teams do not seem worried.

The safety of TCU’s athletes is always a concern during their travel, but head coach Monte Stratton said he does not have increased apprehension with the start of the outdoor season occurring at the same time of war.

He said the morale of the team is high.

“We will do what we can do to help and support one another during this time if the need arises, but I do not foresee any challenges right now,” Stratton said. “Our team is focused and our players are ready to do what they do best no matter what difficulties may lay ahead.”

The Frogs will compete in the Dr Pepper Invitational hosted by Baylor University at the Hart/Patterson Track Complex in Waco beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday. Teams such as Baylor, Southwest Texas State, Texas A&M, Texas Tech and Wichita State are scheduled to compete against the Frogs as they try to clench an important first victory in the outdoor season. The men’s team is trying to defend its Conference USA title.

Stratton said he feels positive about this weekend’s meet and the competition that lies ahead.

“We always have high expectations going into a new season, and we aspire to reach those expectations every meet.”

This year the NCAA has implemented new qualification criteria making it harder for teams and individuals to qualify for the NCAA National meet at the end of the season. Teams will qualify mainly on their performances at one of four regional meets.

Stratton said the NCAA change will not affect the overall performance of the Frogs.

“The talent and dedication of our team makes me confident that the changes made will not make much of a difference at where we stand now and in the future,” he said.

Shelli Manchaca