Men's Track and Field Slotted T-3rd Ahead of GNAC Championships
WESTON, Mass. -- As voted on by the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) coaches, the Regis men's track and field team is projected to finish tied for third with Lasell, each earning 15 points, while Saint Joseph's College of Maine and Emmanuel claimed the top two spots in the pre-championship poll.
The three-time defending champion Monks were selected first with 24 points and four first-place votes as they look to secure a fourth straight title. Emmanuel followed in second with 16 points, while Lasell, which received one first-place vote, shares third with last year's runner-up Regis. The GNAC Outdoor Championships will take place this weekend at Saint Joseph's College of Maine.
The Pride will be led by a strong upperclassmen group, headlined by senior Justin Thuotte, who looks to cap off an illustrious career in the crimson and gold. A 12-time medalist, Thuotte currently ranks second in the GNAC in the high jump, long jump, and triple jump. His 1.90-meter high jump mark, set at the Regis Classic, stands as a program record. He also sits third in the hammer throw and sixth in the shot put, and after three medal-winning performances at the indoor championships, he has proven his ability to perform on the big stage. Rookie Brady Elliott could also make an impact, ranking fifth in the high jump and just outside the top five in the triple jump.
In the throws, Regis will look to capitalize on its depth, particularly in the shot put, where the Pride hold the top three marks in the conference. Ryan Sweeney leads the way, followed by Bryan Abreu and rookie Brock Mcclain. Sweeney also holds the top mark in the hammer throw, while Mcclain leads the conference in the discus.
In the mid-distance events, Brian LaPorte will look to contribute, currently sitting sixth in the GNAC in both the 800 and 1500 meters.
With a veteran core and experienced seniors, the Pride will look to make a strong push at this weekend's championships.
Full GNAC release can be found here.
MOTF Pre-Championship Poll
1. Saint Joseph's (Maine) (4) - 24
2. Emmanuel - 16
T.3 Lasell (1) - 15
T.3 Regis - 15
5. Colby-Sawyer - 5