BARRY UNIVERSITY MEN’S TRACK & FIELD: TEAM SHOWS STRONG PROMISE IN EARLY 2025 MEETS

By Litzy Grijalba

As the 2025 season kicks into high gear, the Barry University men’s track & field team is beaming with optimism and determination. Coming off strong performances in early-season meets, the team is setting its sights on even greater achievements as their season progresses.

Focusing on resilience, strong leadership, and a firm belief in their potential, these Buccaneers are determined to overcome the challenges ahead and succeed on national levels.

Heading into the 2025 season, the Buccaneers have a clear mission: to build on past successes and reach even greater heights. Their focus extends beyond personal goals, uniting them to achieve something bigger as a group.

Photo Credit to Barry University "Jejuan Gillispie"

“We are a family, and the coaches constantly remind us how to be great, both in and out of the sport of track and field. They genuinely want us to be great, like no one else,” said sophomore Jejuan Gillispie, majoring in exercise science.

This mindset of unity and ambition is driving the Buccaneers' strategic approach this season. With a clear focus on achieving their goals, the team is prioritizing key areas. They are honing their technical skills, refining game-day tactics, and analyzing past performances to identify areas for improvement. As they continue to develop their skills and perfect their preparations, the next challenge will be translating that hard work into success at key events throughout the season.

Two major competitions that are particularly on the team's radar are the SSC Championship, set for April 19 at Daytona Beach, and the UNF East Coast Relays, taking place on May 2-3 in Jacksonville, Florida. Both events will be critical opportunities for the Buccaneers to showcase their progress and compete at the highest level.

“We  are all working toward one goal: winning,” said Gillispie.

Photo Credit to Pexels

With these crucial events on the horizon, the team is determined to give it their all and prove they’re ready to rise to the challenge. Strategies for success in preparation for the Buccaneers is vital to their season. The Buccaneers’ preparation goes beyond just physical training, with a focus on both mental and physical readiness. Alongside individual skill development, the team emphasizes trust-building activities, open communication, and leadership development to strengthen their bond. This strong camaraderie strengthens on-field chemistry, smooth coordination, and a resilient, unified mindset.

These Buccaneers consistently support one another, building a tight-knit bond that helps them stay resilient and push through challenges together, knowing that their unity is a major factor in their performance.

“Camaraderie is a big factor in a key performance, and the feeling of your team behind you over the finish line can help you win a race,” said sophomore Jaylon Sarjeant, majoring in sports management.

“When one of us achieves success, we all cheer each other on, whether it's in practice or a race,” said Gillispie.

With this combination of mental toughness, leadership, and harmony, the Buccaneers are confident that they are on the right path. Their focus is clear as they head into the season’s critical meets—determined to not just compete, but to thrive and achieve their ultimate goal: victory.

Photo Credit to David Bellefleur

Building off their collective determination, the Buccaneers are also guided by a strong coaching staff that has played a pivotal role in their preparation. The coaching team’s leadership and expertise are crucial in helping athletes refine their technique, build strength, and stay mentally focused throughout the season.

“I can say winning the conference is also our team’s goal, although we’re a new program we have been working very hard to create a strong bond among the team and a winning mentality. Personally, I think we are doing great so far this year thanks to our coaches and our desire to win,” said Sarjeant.

With upcoming competitions like the SSC Championship and UNF East Coast Relays on the horizon, the guidance from their coaches will continue to be a key factor in their success. The Buccaneers, backed by the support of their coaching staff, are confident in their ability to rise to the challenge and showcase the results of their hard work on the track.

As the team’s confidence grows, they’ve come to realize their true potential. “We’ve also learned that we have the potential to perform at the top of our conference, and that confidence can carry us a long way for this season,” said Gillispie.

With this belief in themselves and the unwavering support from their coaches, the Buccaneers are ready to tackle the rest of the season head-on.

Don't forget to check out Barry University men’s track & field games and support the Buccaneers as they aim for victory!