MIAA Field Athlete of the Week
Garrett Appier, Pittsburg State
Appier continued his dominant season in the mens shot put with another winning performance, taking the crown at the Pitt State Invitational Friday (Jan. 29). He threw the implement 64 feet, 0.25 inches – the third time this season he has exceeded the automatic qualifying standard. The distance is second nationally only to Appiers toss of 64-1.75 at the Crimson & Gold Invitational on Dec. 5. The 6-5 senior is a native of Paola, Kan. where he competed at Paola High School.
Others nominated: Deondra Canaday, Lindenwood; Jake Morrow, Fort Hays State; Payton Nelson, Nebraska-Kearney; Caniggia Raynor, Central Missouri.
MIAA Track Athlete of the Week
Roberto Smith, Lincoln
Roberto Smith punched his ticket to the NCAA championships with an automatic time of 6.74 in the 60m dash at the Pittsburg State Invitational. Smith finished third overall and had the best time among Division II athletes in the event, with his time of 6.74 leading the MIAA and ranking fourth in the country. The time is also the only automatic qualifier by an MIAA athlete in any of the sprints this season. The 5-11 freshman is a native of St. Catherine, Jamaica where he competed at G.C. Foster.
Others nominated: Jerod Broadbooks, Lindenwood; Taysean Goodwin, Emporia State; Jayce Thomas, Missouri Southern; Cody Wirth, Nebraska-Kearney.
