Adversity has been the name of the game this season for the Aurora University Spartan Men's Track and Field team. “Despite losing some athletes, we are still favored to win the outdoor NAC title,” said head coach Chapman. “We are interested in seeing how these guys defend their indoor title after losing a few athletes, yet also gaining a few studs.”
          
Juniors Kyle Kayzar, Pete Claus, and JJ Santoyo all placed in the top 8 this past March at the Indoor Northern Athletics Conference Championship; none of whom will compete at the outdoor championships. The Spartan men will now rely on returning performers to obtain points at the upcoming outdoor NAC championships. “Guys like Alex Hoyle, Tyron Pitchford, Nick Williams, Alex Duncan, Wade Robinson, Roberto Gonzalez, and Drew Schmitt are all going to get us points in conference,” said assistant coach Robert Lopez. “All in more than just one event.”

Yet, new faces have emerged has top performers this outdoor season. Freshmen Kalmon Stokes and CJ Schutt were members of the NAC champion AU men's basketball team. Stokes, a hurdler, is ranked first in conference in the 400 meter hurdles. Schutt is also ranked in the top ten in the conference in the discus, as well as the triple jump. Freshman Wes Heniff has emerged as one of AU's top sprinters.

Next action for the Spartan men's track and field team comes on Friday, May 3 and Saturday May 4 at the 2013 Northern Athletics Conference Championships hosted by Wisconsin Lutheran College. Meet time is set for 11 a.m. in Milwaukee, Wis.