NORFOLK, Va. --- The Norfolk State track and field teams enter the new season with championship expectations on both the men's and women's sides. Director of Track and Field Programs Kenneth Giles embraces the standard.

"We don't take anything for granted," Giles said. "We have a target on our backs, and we know we have powerful talent."

The Norfolk State men's program swept all MEAC championships last season, including the cross country, indoor, and outdoor titles, and opened this year with another cross-country title. Giles believes his group can chase another MEAC triple crown.

All-American sprinter Kendrick Winfield returns to anchor the roster after a breakout first season that included indoor All-America honors in the 200 meters. Winfield also won the MEAC indoor titles in the 200 and 400.

"He had the best year of his career," Giles said. "He kept working over the summer to get even better. He's ready for an even bigger year."

Sophomore standout Jaymes Saunders also returns as a versatile weapon.

"He did it all for us," Giles said. "We could put him anywhere on the track, and he came through for us every time."

Jumpers Jayden Gordon and Kristopher Stephens, both NCAA East Regional qualifiers and academic All-Americans, lead the field events. Vincent Bond Jr. adds scoring potential after earning bronze in the 300 meters at last year's MEAC Outdoor Championships.

"Our roster isn't shy of talent," Giles said. "We have all of the pieces to be successful this season. The Spartans also have several more key contributors, expected to make a big impact, including Landon Walker (pole vault), Atrell Williams (throws), Julian Ward (sprints), Antoine Smith (sprints), and Christopher Basking (sprints).

Giles expects the newcomers to elevate the roster even further. Tennessee transfer Shamar Heard, once a top national recruit, impressed immediately.

"He looks good and is everything that was advertised," Giles said. "I expect him to fit right in with our squad and make an immediate impact."

NSU will also lean on its freshmen class: sprinter Jaelyn Martin (Detroit), jumper Xavier McGreal (Kennett Square, Pa.) and jumper Cancelor Watson (Knightdale, N.C.). Giles highlighted freshman distance runner Jemmel Green after a strong cross-country season.

"Jemmel impressed us during cross country season with his top-10 finish at the MEAC Championships," Giles said. "I expect him to continue to make an impact and continue to grow this season."

Lewis Too anchors the distance team after earning MEAC Most Outstanding Runner honors during last year's outdoor season. He also captured the individual MEAC cross-country title this fall.

"I was really proud of what he accomplished," Giles said. "We're really excited for what is to come this season."

The women's team returns elite hurdles talent and adds one of Giles' strongest freshman classes. The Spartans aim to improve on last season's runner-up finishes at the MEAC Indoor and Outdoor Championships, as well as this year's second-place finish at the MEAC Cross Country Championships.

It starts with star hurdler Brooklyn Robinson, who advanced to the NCAA East Regional semifinals and rewrote the program record book.

"She had a star-studded season," Giles said. "She's ready to lead us to that championship we've been chasing."

Transfer sprinter Brandy Hall continues to settle into the program.

"She's really just getting going," Giles said. "She's ready to lead, too."

The freshman class brings immediate scoring potential. Giles highlighted sprinter Janaisa Dearry, Payton Drumwright, California product Nevaeh Lewis, and Virginia sprinter Jada Arrington.

A major missing piece last season was the triple jump, but NSU addressed that with Yowome Ayim — an All-Region, All-District, All-State, and national qualifier.

"We really needed the triple jump last season at the MEAC Championships," Giles said. "With Yowome, we have that missing piece that we can compete in those events."

Giles also noted additions such as Wofford transfer distance runner Danielle King and local pole vaulter Emma Svetiev, adding depth after key graduation losses.

"We were young last year, and we still will be this year," Giles said. "We now have a year of experience for us to compete for a championship this season."

Norfolk State opens the indoor season at Clemson, an early measuring stick.

"It's always good to have a meet in December," Giles said. "It tells us their fitness before winter break."

After returning in January, NSU heads to the VCU-hosted Virginia Beach meet before traveling to the HBCU Showcase in New York.

"It's more than track and field," Giles said. "It's an educational experience. And we get to compete against top HBCUs for dual titles."

The Spartans then take their annual trip to Penn State.

"We perform well there every year," Giles said. "This year won't be any different."

NSU added the Penn Classic in Philadelphia, giving several athletes a chance to compete near home.

The season builds toward the MEAC Championships and the NCAA Indoor Championships in Fayetteville, where Giles expects the 4x400, Robinson, Winfield, Heard, Baahn and others to contend.

"On the men's side, we have power," Giles said. "We can compete in the top side of any conference."

With depth, national-level talent, and a demanding schedule, Norfolk State starts the season with confidence.

"I think the results will speak for themselves," Giles said. "We're ready to compete for championships."

For complete coverage of Norfolk State Athletics, please follow the Spartans on social media at @nsuspartans (X/Twitter), /NorfolkStateAthletics (Facebook), @NSUAthletics (Instagram), @nsuathletics (YouTube) or visit the official home of Norfolk State Athletics at nsuspartans.com.