Harrogate, TN -- The South Atlantic Conference has officially released its outdoor track and field preseason coaches poll for the 2026 season, positioning the Lincoln Memorial University programs as competitive contenders in a deep field of regional talent. The Railsplitter women's squad earned the seventh spot in the rankings, while the men's team followed closely behind with an eighth place selection. These rankings reflect the expectations of league coaches as the teams transition from the indoor circuit to the outdoor season, where a diverse field of throwing, jumping, and sprinting events will test the depth of the rosters.
Individual recognition accompanied the team rankings as several Railsplitters were highlighted for their potential impact on the upcoming campaign. The women's team will look to the leadership and performance of Theresa Brosthaus, Jacie Begley, Cate Turner, and Callie Wetzel, all of whom were designated as athletes to watch within the conference. Their contributions across various disciplines are expected to be a driving force for the program as they aim to climb the standings and secure podium finishes at the conference championships.
On the men's side, the South Atlantic Conference identified four key members of the Lincoln Memorial roster as athletes to watch for the outdoor season. Luis Boerkey, Joel Boerkey, Jackson Clonce, and Vincent Quilici received the honors, signaling a strong foundation for the Railsplitters as they prepare for a rigorous schedule of meets. With these recognized athletes leading the way, the program enters the season focused on exceeding preseason expectations and establishing a consistent presence at the top of the conference leaderboard.
COMPLETE SAC OUTDOOR TRACK AND FIELD PRESEASON COACHES' POLL:
2025-26 SAC Men's Outdoor Track & Field Preseason Coaches' Poll
Rank School (First Place Votes) Score
1. Lenoir-Rhyne (11) 132
2. Catawba 110
3. Carson-Newman (1) 109
4. Lenoir-Rhyne 104
5. Anderson 103
6. Mars Hill 72
7. Newberry 71
8. Lincoln Memorial 65
9. Tusculum 54
10. UVA Wise 43
11. Coker 35
12. Emory & Henry 27
2025-26 SAC Women's Outdoor Track & Field Preseason Coaches' Poll
Rank School (First Place Votes) Score
1. Wingate (11) 132
2. Catawba 111
3. Tusculum (1) 106
4. Lenoir-Rhyne 99
5. Anderson 94
6. Carson-Newman 91
7. Lincoln Memorial 77
8. Mars Hill 61
9. UVA Wise 49
10. Newberry 40
11. Coker 37
12. Emory & Henry 27
