Davenport University, a private non-profit university located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers a comprehensive athletic program that includes track and field. The university's track and field teams have a rich history of success, with numerous conference championships and national qualifiers. In this article, we will delve into the Davenport University track and field programs and teams, exploring their history, achievements, and what makes them stand out.
History of Track and Field at Davenport University
Davenport University's track and field program has a long and storied history, dating back to the early 2000s. The program has undergone significant growth and development over the years, with the addition of new facilities, coaching staff, and student-athletes. Today, the university's track and field teams compete at the NCAA Division II level, offering student-athletes the opportunity to compete against top-level competition.
Men's Track and Field Program
The Davenport University men's track and field program has experienced significant success in recent years, with multiple conference championships and national qualifiers. The team is led by Head Coach Scott Weaver, who has been at the helm of the program since its inception. Under Weaver's guidance, the team has produced numerous All-Americans, conference champions, and record-holders.
Women's Track and Field Program
The Davenport University women's track and field program has also experienced success, with multiple conference championships and national qualifiers. The team is led by Head Coach Sara Fouch, who has been with the program since 2015. Under Fouch's guidance, the team has produced numerous All-Americans, conference champions, and record-holders.
Facilities and Equipment
Davenport University's track and field teams have access to top-notch facilities and equipment, including the Du Charme Athletics Complex, which features a 400-meter track, long jump and triple jump pits, high jump and pole vault areas, and a throwing circle. The complex also includes a state-of-the-art weight room and athletic training facilities.
Coaching Staff
The Davenport University track and field coaching staff is comprised of experienced and knowledgeable coaches who have a proven track record of success. The staff includes:
- Scott Weaver, Head Coach (Men's Track and Field)
- Sara Fouch, Head Coach (Women's Track and Field)
- Amanda Smith, Assistant Coach (Sprints and Hurdles)
- John Johnson, Assistant Coach (Distance and Cross Country)
Athletic Achievements
Davenport University's track and field teams have achieved numerous athletic successes, including:
- 10 conference championships
- 20 national qualifiers
- 5 All-Americans
- 10 record-holders
Notable Alumni
Davenport University's track and field program has produced several notable alumni, including:
- Rachel Webb, 2018 NCAA Division II national champion in the 400-meter hurdles
- Michael Edwards, 2017 NCAA Division II national qualifier in the long jump
- Emily Kruggel, 2016 NCAA Division II national qualifier in the pole vault
Recruiting and Eligibility
Davenport University's track and field teams are actively recruiting student-athletes who are interested in competing at the NCAA Division II level. To be eligible to compete, student-athletes must meet the NCAA's eligibility requirements, which include:
- Graduating from high school with a minimum 2.3 GPA
- Scoring a minimum 1010 on the SAT or 86 on the ACT
- Completing 16 core courses in high school
Tryouts and Walk-Ons
Davenport University's track and field teams hold annual tryouts for prospective student-athletes. Walk-ons are also welcome to try out for the team.
Gallery of Davenport University Track and Field
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NCAA Division II?
+The NCAA Division II is a division of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) that comprises 306 colleges and universities.
What are the eligibility requirements for NCAA Division II?
+To be eligible to compete in NCAA Division II, student-athletes must meet the NCAA's eligibility requirements, which include graduating from high school with a minimum 2.3 GPA, scoring a minimum 1010 on the SAT or 86 on the ACT, and completing 16 core courses in high school.
How do I try out for the Davenport University track and field team?
+Davenport University's track and field teams hold annual tryouts for prospective student-athletes. Walk-ons are also welcome to try out for the team.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Davenport University track and field programs and teams. With their rich history, experienced coaching staff, and top-notch facilities, the Panthers are a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division II. If you're interested in learning more or trying out for the team, we encourage you to reach out to the coaching staff or visit the university's website.