In this segment of the most recent episode of March 2 The Pod, Cory Hogue and Ben Sorrells focused on another strong showing from Sam Houston track and field, this time at the 44 Farms Team Invitational hosted by Texas A&M. Their discussion underscored not only the quality of the results, but also the growing sense that the Bearkats are building legitimate momentum with a roster full of young talent.
The women’s side drew particular praise. Ellie Gallin won the 1,500 meters with a personal-best 4:33, while Sophia Phillips finished third in the same event with her own personal best. Brooke Cerny, Lauren Johansson, and Maddie Watson also posted strong 800-meter times, while Alicia Galvez placed third in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. In the field events, Nia Thompson, Tanaya Coleman, Madeline Eckers, Jatoryia Barnes, and Kapualani Magnani all added solid performances, further emphasizing the depth of the roster. Hogue repeatedly pointed out how many of those contributors were freshmen, a detail that shaped the tone of the conversation.
On the men’s side, the hosts highlighted another loaded sprint group. Xzamian Parker placed third in the 100 meters, followed closely by Omarion Ferguson, Javain Johnson, and Tyreek Brunn in a race where the margins were razor-thin. That speed translated to the 4x100 relay, where Sam Houston finished second with a season-best 39.31. The distance events also stood out, with Mario Ruiz taking second in the 5,000 meters, Anthony Perez breaking the four-minute barrier in the 1,500, and several freshmen making their mark.
The invitational races provided another boost. Nora Ryan finished second in the women’s 800 invitational with a personal best, while Caleb Anthony won the men’s 800 invitational. Hogue and Sorrells framed the weekend as more evidence that Sam Houston track and field is trending upward, with the mix of current results and youthful promise giving the program a strong foundation heading toward the conference meet.
