Nicholls State Track and Field Teams Head to Championship
The Nicholls State University track and field teams are gearing up for the Southland Conference Outdoor Championships in Nacogdoches, Texas, from May 14-16, 2026. This three-day event promises to be an exciting showcase of talent and athleticism.
This season, the Colonels have shown impressive skills, with many athletes achieving personal bests and setting school records. Some athletes are ranked among the top performers in the Southland Conference (SLC), making this championship even more thrilling.
Noteworthy Performances
Nisaiah Bennett has been a standout, breaking the school record in the men’s 200m with a time of 20.67 seconds at the LSU Alumni Gold meet, which also ranks as the second-best time in the SLC. He also set a record in the 100m dash at 10.38 seconds during the Louisiana Classics, placing him 11th in the conference. Bennett teamed up with Calahan Leahy, Connor Gil, and Jonnell “Deuce” Scott to set a new record in the 4x100m relay at the same LSU meet.
On the women’s side, Issy Rivault made waves by breaking the school record in the 3K at the Pelican Relays, finishing in 10:21.70. She also holds the fourth-best time in the SLC for the 3K steeplechase, clocking in at 11:15.50. In field events, Benjamin Rodrigue achieved a record in the triple jump, leaping 14.47m at the Strawberry Relays, which is the sixth-best mark in the conference. Iradi Blasco also impressed with a high jump of 1.75m, ranking second in the SLC.
Team Spirit and Outlook
Head coach Stefanie Slekis is excited about the team’s journey this season. “Both our Men’s and Women’s teams are positioned the best they have been in recent years. We are eager to see our student-athletes maximize their potential,” she said.
Past championships show that preparation is key. Coaches often emphasize the importance of mental focus as much as physical training. As the competition grows fiercer, athletes are pushed to refine their skills and strategies. According to a recent SLC survey, around 70% of athletes feel that mental training positively impacts their performance. This statistic highlights a growing awareness of the role mindset plays in sports.
With athletes ready to bring their A-game, all eyes will be on Nicholls State at this year’s championships. The energy and talent promise a showcase of some of the best moments in track and field.
For more details, you can check the live results here and find more championship information here.
