They devoted years to throwing farther, running faster and jumping higher. They sweated over form, ran dirt roads, recovered from strains, tears and bruises, lifted weights and sacrificed sweets.
They were not ready to let COVID-19 end their careers, not even through a year of waiting.
"It was a hard decision to make, because I am coming back just for seven meets," said Alex Adams, a thrower and Master of Business Administration student. "I just couldn't let it go, knowing I could have done more. I can't let it end like that."
Today (Friday), Wichita State opens its outdoor track and field season with the Shocker Spring Invitational at Cessna Stadium.