Anderson Earns NSAA MVP and Top Male Track Athlete Awards

BROOKINGS, SD – The North Star Athletic Association held their Indoor Track and Field Championship Meet on Sunday, and Viterbo's Jalen Anderson was named both the Male Track Athlete of the Meet and the Male MVP.

The Male Track Athlete award is based on the total points earned at the meet. The MVP is voted on by conference coaches. Anderson is the first V-Hawk to earn either award.

"Jalen's performances this past weekend are a clear indication of the work he's put this year, and sacrifice he's made," said Head Coach Kody Michaels. "He'll be the first one to tell you that his team, family, and coaches are the reason behind his success. I believe that speaks volumes on the type of character and leadership Jalen possesses. Were all excited about this past weekend's events, but I know he's got his sights set on something higher as we head to Nationals next week."

Anderson scored a total of 30 points at the meet with three first place performances in the 60-meter dash, 60-meter hurdles, and 200-meter dash.

In the 60-meter hurdles, Anderson set a new personal, school, and conference record with his NAIA "A" Standard time of 7.98, which also currently ranks sixth in the nation. He followed that by running the 60-meter dash in 6.85 seconds, which also set a personal best and Viterbo record, and punched his ticket to nationals. His final gold medal came in the 200-meter, with a time of 21.77 which also beats the national qualifying "B" Standard.

"Competing at my final Indoor Conference meet with Viterbo University, was bittersweet," said Anderson "I was able to watch my teammates succeed and just be in the moment with my family, coaches, and teammates. In terms of my events, I was happy about the performances. There is more work to be done and I am excited to showcase and perform at the national stage representing Viterbo University, my teammates, coaches, and my family."

Anderson returns to Brookings for the NAIA Indoor National Championship Meet from February 29-March 2 to compete in all three events. This will be Anderosn's second time at the Indoor National Meet, and his fourth overall Championship appearance.

Sprints Coach Devon Montgomery added "Incredibly proud of Jalen for leading the team with his outstanding performances! His 7.98 hurdle time has been a work in progress for years, it was amazing to watch him piece it together to win a conference title. I'm excited for nationals, and for what's to come outdoors! Congratulations Jalen!"