With the semester half over and spring break only two weeks past the men’s track and field team has gone from indoor track straight into the outdoor season.

Three Lions made the trip to Boston for indoor nationals on March 14-15. Arley Smith participated in the weight throw, but was not able to produce the results he and head coach Tom Rutledge desired.

“He (Smith) earned the right to be there and just had a bad day,” Rutledge said.

In the pole vault the Lions had two All-Americans and one national champion. Seth Isringhausen won the event at 16-9 to earn the designation of national champion along with All-American.

Kyle Rutledge was the other vaulter who achieved All-American status by vaulting 15-9 to place sixth overall.

Rutledge was proud of both vaulters for their performances especially of Kyle Rutledge, not only as a coach, but also as a father.

The Lions didn’t have much time to rest and relax because in the first week back from the break they had their first meet at Pittsburg State University.

Rutledge thought the meet was a good one for the team due to the little time to practice and the fact it had four provisionals early on.

“Their success is carrying over from indoor; everyone went home over the break and seemed to train,” said Larry Boswell.

The Lions are hosting their only home meet of the season today. The reason it is the only home meet is because of the installation of the new football turf, which will start during the month.

Today’s Sports World Track and Field Festival will give the Lions a chance to see some MIAA competition as well as some out of conference schools.