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Oilers show strength in final indoor home meet
By Techiya Jackson, JacksonT1@Findlay.edu
The University of Findlay’s track and field team successfully closed out its indoor season at home. The annual Flag City Tune-Up meet on Feb. 21 at the Koehler Fitness and Recreation Complex offered standout performances from Findlay athletes as they prepare for the National competition.
Senior long jumper Chris Campbell won the long jump event with a mark of 7.37m. Campbell received many accolades for his outstanding performances; he has won two first place G-MAC championships and was named freshman of the year in the 2021- 2022 indoor season.
“I think my success came from just being dedicated and putting in the work,” Campbell said. “Coming in as a freshman I knew I wanted to make a big impact on this program and now being a senior, I just thank God for helping me reach that goal.”
Beyond the athletes’ performances, this meet showcased the impact of one of the program’s Head Coach Jared Krout.
Since joining the University of Findlay, Krout plays a key role in shaping the program’s continued success. Since 2018, Krout offers a part in helping the Oilers achieve success. The program has now claimed 11 G-MAC championships.
Krout coached over 20 All-Americans and 68 G-MAC champions. His focus on developing well-rounded athletes led to individual and team victories, putting Findlay on the map in collegiate track and field.
“Their desire in prioritizing opportunity, along with hard work is something I admire the most about my athletes,” Krout said. “They show up every day ready to work and learn even in the uncomfortable, and I believe that’s why we have seen so much success as a program.”
Athletic Director Jim Givens acknowledged how much of a difference the coaching staff has made.
“It’s unfortunate how track is a sport that tends to go unnoticed, but this program has quickly changed that narrative with how much they have accomplished,” Givens said. “The impact this team has on and off the track speaks volumes, it is more than impressive, and it is an honor to be a part of something so great.”
Compared to other sports at UF, track and field has won the most conference titles.
With the success the team experienced, the Oilers look forward to competing at the NCAA Championships. The foundation Coach Krout laid helps drive the Oilers’ continued success.
