Jakovina, Morales finish strong seasons

Staff report

JACKSONVILLE, FLA.

YSU sophomore Jay Jakovina (Fitch) and freshman Arnaldo Morales (Struthers)concluded two impressive high jump campaigns at the NCAA outdoor track and field East Preliminaries Saturday at the University of North Florida.

Jakovina, who qualified with a jump of 2.10 meters (6-10 3/4) at the Raleigh Relays on March 28, tied for 34th after clearing 2.05 meters (6-8 3/4) on his second attempt. Jakovina cleared the starting height — 2.0 meters (6-6 3/4) — on his first attempt.

Morales, the 2014 Horizon League high jump champion, qualified for the NCAA preliminaries with a leap of 2.09 meters (6-10 1/4) at the league championships. Morales finished 45th with a jump of 2.0 meters (6-6 3/4).

Morales cleared the initial height on his third attempt.

YSU had nine athletes qualify for this weekend’s meet and advanced two to the NCAA championships: senior shot putter Bobby Grace and sophomore Connor Neu. They will compete in Eugene, Ore., from June 11-14.