JOPLIN, Missouri – Two weeks after competing in its first indoor meet of the season, both the Northwestern State men's and women's track and field teams will take part in the two-day, Lion Invitational hosted by Missouri Southern beginning Friday and running through Saturday.
 
Both units will travel near capacity numbers, and after taking four firsts and 16 top three finishes at the Cowboy Indoor Invite two weeks ago, Demon head coach Leon Johnson is expecting some good things this weekend.
 
“It's going to be a good field,” said Johnson of the competition.  “I'm expecting (hurdler P.J.) Bennett and (Trey) Hatton to gave a good meet.  I also think we'll have a good showing in the 4x400 relay and in the distance medley.”
 
Bennett took first in the 55 meter hurdles at McNeese with a time of 7.73 while Hatton ran a 6.60 time in the 55 meter dash and was the fastest collegiate finisher.
 
On the women's side, the Lady Demons will be looking for strong showings from Lawana Perkins in the 800 meter run, Chantel Bratton in the shot put and weight throw, and sprinters Titi Oden Shobayo and Luynden Hunt.
 
NSU will return to Lake Charles for the Jeff Davis Bank McNeese Inoor II meet on Feb. 3 for its next competition.