TOPEKA, Kan. -The Hinds Community College Track & Field teams head into the NJCAA Indoor National Championships with confidence, depth, and momentum on both the men's and women's sides. After a strong indoor campaign filled with standout performances and program-best marks, the Eagles are poised to compete among the nation's elite on the biggest stage of the season

WOMEN'S OUTLOOK
Leading the way for Hinds is defending national champion Queen Usunobun in the 400 meters. Usunobun returns to the national stage as one of the premier athletes in the NJCAA and will look to defend her title and add more hardware to an already impressive résumé.

Angel Cumberbatch continues to trend upward in the 400 meters and is rounding into peak form at just the right time. Her consistency and late-season improvements give Hinds another strong scoring opportunity in the quarter-mile.

In the 600 meters, Akaree Roberts enters the meet with momentum and confidence. Roberts has positioned herself as a strong finals contender and will be looking to secure valuable team points.

The short sprint events will see Caneila Hope play a major role, bringing speed and experience to the national stage. Meanwhile, Mikenzy Hodges-Woods is set to compete at a high level in the 60-meter hurdles, where she has shown the ability to challenge top competition.

A major highlight for the women's squad will be the 4x400-meter relay team. Currently ranked No. 2 in the NJCAA, the Lady Bu enter as legitimate national title contenders in the event. With strong individual legs and championship experience, the relay will be a focal point in the team standings.

MEN'S OUTLOOK
On the men's side, Hinds will lean heavily on a talented and explosive short sprint group featuring Jayval Wright, Curtis Coleman III, and Raheem Pinnock. All three have positioned themselves to score significant points in the 60 meters and 200 meters, giving Hinds a strong foundation in the team race.

Matthew Sullivan will be a key contributor in the 60-meter hurdles. His strong season performances have put him in scoring position, and he enters nationals with the potential to make a major impact.

In the 400 meters, Craig Carson and Deshaun Gordon will be critical pieces for Hinds. Both are aiming to reach the finals and deliver valuable team points in a highly competitive event.

In the field events, Demetrius Taite looks to make his mark in the triple jump. His ability to produce a big performance at the right time could prove pivotal in the overall standings.

RELAYS – CLOSING STRONG
Championship meets are often decided in the relays, and Hinds will look to finish strong.

Both the men's and women's 4x400-meter relay teams will play crucial roles in maximizing team points and closing out the championships with momentum. With depth across sprint events and athletes capable of delivering under pressure, the Eagles are positioned to make noise when it matters most. As Hinds heads to nationals, the mission is clear. Compete. Execute. Finish.

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