June 30, 2009

BLACK COMPETES AGAINST THE NATION’S BEST

EUGENE, Ore. – Freshman Ronnie Black (Newport News, Va.) of the Virginia Commonwealth University men’s track & field team got an opportunity that many athletes can only dream of obtaining.

Black stepped onto the track at Hayward Field on the campus of the University of Oregon, late Friday evening, to compete against the nation’s best young talent in the track & field world and represent his country.

“It says a lot about Ronnie’s dedication and hard work to be able to say he competed against some of the nation’s elite high jumpers,” Head Coach Julian Spooner said.

The youngster was among four of the 12 competitors that were unable to clear the initial height of 6’ 8 ¼” in his first three jumps.

“Some times the results are exactly what you are looking for, but it’s definitely an experience I’m sure he’ll never forget,” Spooner added. “Knowing the type of kid he is, I know he’ll be able to use this as a learning experience and only get better from here.”

Black is one of seven Rams who competed at NCAA East Regionals this past year and will be returning this upcoming year, along with a slew of other young talent that will seek to get VCU back on the championship podium.