As the Illinois men’s track and field team prepares for its second meet in as many weeks at the Armory, the unifying themes among head coach Mike Turk and various athletes is to simply remain competitive during the early season meets. A consistent showcase of competitive energy is mainly what the team will look to emphasize at this weekend’s Illini Classic.

“All I really want to see during these early season meets is competitiveness from everyone on the team,” said Turk. “I know none of the guys are at midseason form yet, but all I hope to see from them is some fire and to compete with a lot of heart to put on a show for our fans on Friday and Saturday.”

Following a solid showing at last week’s Illini Open, in which the Illini won seven individual titles, notably freshman Cam Viney’s title in the 60-meter hurdles and Ryan Lynn’s personal-record setting title in the mile, Illinois hopes to replicate the success of last weekend with an equally strong performance.

One event Turk foresees a solid day from is pole vaulting. Led by Cody Klein, the pole vaulters won the title in the event at the Illini Open and have been hailed by Turk as one the team’s stronger field events. He expects a breakout season after two seasons of growth. Turk also credited the pole vaulting squad for their maturity and offseason preparation, something that he hopes will benefit the squad throughout the season.

Turk is also focusing on another standout performance in the 60 hurdles. Following the loss of one the Illini’s best track athletes in team history in Andrew Riley, Turk hopes to see continual growth from a young hurdle squad. After last week’s standout debut from Viney, the team expects to see major contributions from him and teammates Joseph Vanier and sophomore Gary Ford in the hurdles.

Another storyline for the Illini this weekend is senior Ryan Lynn’s transition from the mile to the 600 meters. Lynn is also returning to his signature event a week after putting a career-best effort at the mile. Along with getting back to form in the event he is most comfortable, the 600 meters, Lynn hopes to maximize a leadership role on the team as a senior for the younger and less experienced runners. 

“It will definitely be a challenge for me to go from competing in one event one week to another event the next week,” he said. “I’m confident that as long as I compete hard and do what I know I have in me, I’m sure I’ll do fine in my best event.”

Making his season debut in the 60- and 200-meter events will be sophomore Brandon Stryganek. 

“I’m excited for me and the guys to start the year out strong,” he said. “I feel that I had a strong offseason and I’m ready to go for Saturday.”

Turk summed up his thoughts on the weekend’s meet, speaking about what he hopes the team can improve upon following last week’s Illini Open, saying: “I want to see much more camaraderie and a greater sense of team togetherness among all the guys. That will be much more of a focal point and we’re challenging everyone to bring their best.”

Dan can be reached at [email protected].