Time is winding down on the 2015 track season for the Grambling State Lady Tigers track team. The outdoor SWAC championship, which is set to begin on April 23, is swiftly approaching and the Lady Tigers are working to prepare for it.
The ladies plan to make another statement in the outdoor championship after placing 3rd in the indoor championship in February. Their performance from indoor has given them a swing of momentum that can aid in their upcoming battle.
“For many of us, this is another chance to shock the world,” said sophomore sprinter Creshonda Carter.
Carter is a huge catalyst for the team and looks to score big points in the 400 and 200 meter dash.
Even though the Lady Tigers have a push of momentum, there have been a few setbacks after the indoor season that have affected the team. Last month the Tigers’ fastest sprinter, Printassia Johnson, dropped out of school due to unfortunate circumstances back home in the Bahamas.
“It really sucks that we had to lose her because she was not only fast, she was a great teammate,” said Darlene Desmangles, sophomore jumper from Miami.
Johnson’s departure was not the only hit the team took.
A few weeks ago their leading hurdler, Primecha Coates, went down with a hamstring injury in practice. Coates is a senior and is currently sitting in second place in the SWAC rankings for the 100 meter hurdles.
“It is so unfortunate, but I won’t let this injury hold me back,” said Coates. “I’m going to do all that I can to have a speedy recovery and help my team,” she finished.
Despite the heavy blows that the team has taken, they still remain confident and focused. With just two weeks remaining, only time will tell if they will achieve their goals and further prove themselves on the track.
“Together we shall perspire, together we shall achieve,” finished head coach Bertram Lovell.