Week after week, the track and field team has traveled in rain and shine to compete at meets across the country. This weekend the competition comes to Illinois, as the Illini host the Big Ten Relays right at home in Champaign in recently unveiled Demirjian Park. 

With the number of schools competing this weekend and the Big Ten Championship approaching in May, this may be a glimpse of what you will see in the postseason weeks from now. 

“Being named Big Ten Athlete of the Week is great, but I am excited about the Big Ten Championship because I know the best of the best will be there,” said redshirt senior Jon Davis.

The three-time All-American has won multiple events this year while being named Big Ten Athlete of the Week on numerous occasions, yet he looks towards the future. Being able to stay and compete in the comfort of your own home the night before makes preparation for the event even more easier.

“I’m just happy everyone is competing well, and we all are completing our own goals,” Davis said. “That’s what makes this worth it.”

Top schools like Ohio State, Indiana and Iowa will be competing this weekend in the men’s and women’s events. Olivia Howell, Amira Aduma and Jessica McDowell have been the backbone of this team, setting personal best and breaking school records every week.

With Jonathan Wells’ return this year, the Big Ten has been put on notice, as he currently leads the Big Ten in high jump.

 Jon Davis has won a event at the Husker Invitational and Big Ten Invitational #3, so he looks to continue that streak this weekend.

Is Manning Platter going to set a new record this week in the men’s discus event? Will he be named Big Ten Athlete of the Week again? These are all questions that will be answered Friday and Saturday at the Illini’s brand-new track and field facility.

@dre2xx

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