Minjock top runner in D-III indoor track season opener
As sophomore Mark Minjock toes the blocks for the first event of the day, one thought is going through his mind: “Run hard. Start fast, and win, win, win.”
That thought propelled Minjock on Friday when he set school records in both the 60-meter and 200-meter dashes at the Youngstown State Ice Breaker. The competition was full with both Division I and Division II runners, but Minjock emerged as the top Division III runner in the event.
“Mark had a fantastic day,” said head coach Jason Falvo. “He is a relentless worker who is definitely getting out what he is putting in. I am excited to see how he progresses this season.”
Minjock started his productive day by finishing 12th and tying the Waynesburg University school record in the 60-meter dash with a time of 7.21 seconds. He followed that up by breaking the record in the 200-meter dash finishing in 16th place with a time of 23.09 seconds.
Even after such a good start to the season, Minjock is determined to improve his game and become better with each meet. He indicates his hard work in the offseason as one of the reasons he has become the runner he is today.
“I have to treat every event the same,” said Minjock. “I don’t let up, and I am always determined to run a personal best.”
To go along with his two school records, Minjock was the top finisher of any Division III athlete in both events. The sophomore standout had success in his rookie year last season and looks to use his accomplishments to propel him through the rest of the season.
“The records are good,” said Minjock. “But I don’t want to let up. I have to continue to work harder than I ever have before and keep pushing harder and harder everyday.”
Sophomore Mitch Kendra and junior Brandon Vantine headed the field events. Kendra finished in 11th place in the event with a height of 4.20 meters, finishing fourth among Division III competitors.
“Mitch is the defending outdoor pole vault champion,” said Falvo. “I was not surprised he competed as well as he did. He is very dedicated to his craft and will continue to do well for us.”
Junior Brandon Vantine led all Division III athletes in the shot put with a 10th place finish with 13.03 meters. Vantine has been behind Travis Schubert his whole collegiate career, and will now get the chance to shine with Schubert having graduated.
The track team has a big break until their next event, which will take place on Saturday, Jan. 16, when it travels to the Marietta Open.
The break gives the athletes some time to relax, but for Minjock, he said he will use that time to better himself.
“I will be working out a lot over the break,” said Minjock. “I will be pushing myself just as hard as I would be if I were on campus.”
For Falvo, the leadership aspect of the team will be very important for the success that the team looks to display.
“I am looking forward to seeing how this team responds after graduating three Jacket greats,” said Falvo. “Our leadership will need to direct this team and build off of a very good off season of work.”