WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University men's and women's track and field teams open their 2025 indoor campaign this weekend with a busy two-day slate split between a pair of competitive regional meets.

The Hilltoppers begin the season on Friday at the Youngstown State Icebreaker in Youngstown, Ohio. Action begins at 1 p.m. with a full lineup of running and field events on a rolling schedule, starting with the women's 5000 meters and continuing throughout the afternoon. Both squads will get their first opportunity to set early-season marks and establish momentum heading into the winter.

Running events open with the 60-meter hurdles and 60-meter dash qualifying rounds, followed by mile, 400 meters, 800 meters, and the full slate of sprint finals. Distance races—including the 3000 meters and 1600-meter relays—will close out the meet.
Field events also start at 1 p.m., featuring pole vault, high jump, weight throw, shot put, long jump, and triple jump, with the top nine marks moving on to finals.

West Liberty returns to competition on Saturday at the Mount Union Toy Drive Invite in Alliance, Ohio, beginning at 11 a.m.

This weekend also marks the debut of new head coach Michael Trax, who steps into the lead role for both programs after previously serving as the Hilltoppers' jumps coach.

Trax said he is eager to see how both squads open the season and highlighted several athletes to watch.

"We are very excited for the team to compete this weekend," Trax said. "On the women's side, Ky'Ara Ross and Sierra Lanham in the long jump and Brookelyn Reynolds in the 400m are poised for strong starts. On the men's side, we're excited to have Talan Ramsay back in the long jump after a great year last season. I'm also looking forward to watching Tristin Ohler in the 60 and 200 meters. Mac, Jasper, and Francis on the distance side will be exciting to watch after their great cross country season."