SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The Augustana indoor track & field squads have been picked second in this year's NSIC Preseason Coaches' Poll, the league announced Thursday. The Viking women picked up a first-place vote and 182 points to be tabbed second while the men totaled 107 points and a first-place vote. The Vikings begin their indoor season Friday at the SDSU Holiday Invitational & Multi in Brookings, South Dakota.
"We have a strong nucleus of outstanding returners and talented newcomers that should help to shape our team," said head coach Tracy Hellman. "We have a talented team and are excited to see what we can do this coming indoor season."
Nicolette Schmidt has been coined the Preseason Track Athlete to Watch for the women. Last season, Schmidt was named an All-American in both the DMR and mile event. Schmidt was also awarded as an NSIC Athlete of the Week in 2022 while also being a member of the All-Conference and All-Region squads.
"Nicolette has had tremendous success in the NSIC and NCAA, and is looking to finish her indoor campaign with her best season yet," Hellman said of Schmidt.
Kylee Sallee has been named the Preseason Field Athlete to watch for the women. Last season Sallee was a member of the All-Conference indoor pentathlon. She placed third in the pentathlon at the NSIC Indoor Track & Field Championships with a personal best score of 3,335 points.
"Kylee had an outstanding freshman campaign last year, and should be much improved her second year as she is adjusting to the college schedule," added Hellman.
Lawrence Lokonobei has been titled the Preseason Track Athlete to Watch for the men. Lokonobei has been a two-time all-conference honoree in the 60 meter hurdles, while also being a 2nd-team All-American in the 60 meter hurdles.
"Lawrence has shown improvement every year, and is entering this season in a great spot to build off his past experiences," said Hellman.
Jonathan Sikel was named the Preseason Field Athlete to watch for the men. Sikel saw a personal best in the Heptathlon at the Bison Open last season totaling 4460 points.
"Jonathan had a breakout year last year, and we hope to continue to build upon his past success," added Hellman.
Augustana has eight meets on its schedule prior to the NSIC Championships taking place Feb. 24-25 in Mankato, Minnesota. The NCAA Division II Indoor Track & Field Championships are slated for March 10-11 in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
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