USC Track and Field Shines Early at Major Kansas Invitational

USCs jumpers set the tone with standout performances as the Trojans opened competition at the DeLoss Dodds Invitational.

USC Jumpers Open Strong at DeLoss Dodds Invitational

MANHATTAN, Kan. - USC’s jump squad kicked off their weekend at the DeLoss Dodds Invitational with a promising start, as a pair of Trojan freshmen made early statements on Friday at Kansas State University.

In the men’s long jump, Jackson Norris delivered a standout performance, notching a personal-best leap of 7.40 meters. That mark was good enough for sixth place in a competitive field - a strong showing for the freshman as he continues to settle into collegiate competition. It’s the kind of early-season progress that bodes well for Norris and the Trojans as they build toward the championship stretch later this year.

Over in the high jump, Elias Gerald cleared 2.14 meters to finish ninth. While not a personal best, it was a solid effort in a stacked field and another valuable rep for the sophomore, who’s shown flashes of high-ceiling potential in past meets.

The action isn’t done yet for the Trojans. Five USC athletes are set to return to the runway on Saturday, with the women’s long jump scheduled for 1:45 p.m.

PT, followed by the triple jump at 2:15 p.m. PT.

It’s another opportunity for the squad to build momentum and rack up quality marks early in the indoor season.

Stay tuned for live updates and results throughout the weekend.