MANKATO, Minn. – Minnesota State men's track and field scored 230.5 points at the Maverick Invite Friday, finishing first in a six-team field in their final tune-up meet prior to the NSIC Indoor Championships.
 
The Mavericks finished ahead of Saint John's (140), Southwest Minnesota State (69), Gustavus Adolphus (57), Martin Luther (33.5) and Saint Mary's (28).
 
"We had 3/8 of our team resting in preparation for the conference meet, while the rest competed between the University of Minnesota and our home meet," commented head coach Mike Turgeon. "Friday night was especially meaningful as we honored 48 seniors and their families during our annual Senior Night. Many of these seniors began their collegiate journey during the pandemic and have played a pivotal role in shaping the future of our program. Our coaching staff is incredibly humbled and grateful for their dedication to making MSU Track and Field what it is today."
 
Blake Wakeling and Alex Berg finished first and second again in pole vault, with the former posting a mark of 4.69m (15-4.50) for 58^th in Division II. The Mavericks dominated the top six positions in shot put. Ben Wieser led the group with his first place, season best mark at 16.72m (54-10.25)(31^st in Division II).
 
Liam Byrne led the weight throw athletes with a mark of 18.33m (60-1.75).
 
On the track, Luke Scholtes won the mile run with a time of 4:29.28. The 60 meter dash went to MSU's Ezekiel Clark, whose time of 6.77 was a season best and 25^th in Division II. Maquanet Collins led the field in 600 meters with a time of 1:22.78 and Alvin Thomas took first in 400 meters with a time of 51.00 (personal best).
 
Owen Petersohn also won the 60 meter hurdles after he crossed the line in 8.18 seconds.
 
Minnesota State's next meet is the NSIC Indoor Championships, hosted Feb 28-Mar. 1 at Myers Field House. MSU will contend for their 14th straight NSIC men's indoor track & field title.
 
"We're excited for the opportunity to defend our conference championship at home next weekend and hope to see our fans pack the field house for an exciting weekend of track and field," Turgeon said.