by Bahamas Athletics

Photo Kermit Taylor

The Bahamas Association of Athletics Associations (BAAA) hosted the 2017 Junior Nationals June 16th and 17th at the Original Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium. While many family members and friends of the athletes attend the event, some are there to scout potential recruits for universities.

Clayton Pritchard assistant coach, North Dakota State University was there to watch a few athletes in particular, Daejha Moss and Kyle Alcine, who will attend North Dakota State University in the fall. Moss and Alcine did a great job when first met them, according to Pritchard. He added that they always had much potential, but they've continued to improve. They've done all that was expected and when they get to North Dakota State, it's expected that they'll get even better.

Moss, who is an extremely gifted athlete, competes in the high jump, triple jump, long jump and can also run the hurdles. She finished first this past weekend in the high jump at 1.65 meters and also first in the women's under 20 long jump at 5.32 meters. Klye did not win an event this weekend, but is a strong competitor as a high jumper.

Moss and Alcine will enter a program that has had a tremendous amount of success, dominating their conference. The girls have won have won indoor/outdoor each of the last 10 seasons, while the men have won either and indoor or an outdoor in each of the last 10 seasons.

When asked about the adjustment process Moss and Alcine will have going from the Bahamas to North Dakota, Pritchard noted that the climate shouldn't be a factor. At first it will still be warm, but when the cooler weather hits in October and November, the team practices in an exclusive indoor facility. This leads right into their indoor season before the transition in March, when the teams train 1 to 2 sessions outside per week. The outdoor season begins late April and early May, when the weather gets warmer.

Pritchard also noted that the University looks for far more in potential recruits than ability on the track. While important, the athletes work in the classroom is vitally important. The ultimate goal is to prepare athletes for their life beyond track and into everyday life after graduating.