NASHVILLE – Tennessee State men's and women's track and field begins its 2025-26 indoor campaign on Saturday as the Tigers make the short trip to Vanderbilt for the Commodore Challenge. Competition begins at 8:30 a.m. inside the Vanderbilt Multipurpose Facility, marking TSU's first full-team outing of the winter season.

The Tigers return a strong core on both sides, highlighted by proven sprinters, emerging middle-distance runners, and the defending OVC champion men's 4x400 relay team. With a blend of veteran leadership and young talent, TSU looks to open the season with momentum against a deep field of regional programs.

For the men, TSU features a loaded sprint group led by Quest Agee, Oladipo Akomolafe, and Joshua McClendon. All three posted strong indoor marks last season and are expected to set the tone early in the 60, 200, and 400-meter events. Agee's strength in the quarter-mile, combined with Akomolafe and McClendon's versatility across short sprints, gives TSU one of the conference's strongest sprint trios entering the year. The group will also anchor the Tigers' 4x400 relay, which captured the OVC championship last spring and returns with championship expectations.

Distance specialist Robert Hooper adds balance to the men's squad with strong experience in the mile and longer events. His steady pacing and consistency position him as a key point-scorer as TSU opens the indoor slate.

On the women's side, Tennessee State brings a deep middle-distance unit supported by emerging youth and returning experience. Quinn Hudson leads the group with strong potential in the 800 and mile, while Giah Thomas adds speed in the sprints and relays. Middle-distance runners Maleia Ali and Olivia Allison give TSU additional depth in the 600, 800, and 1000, offering valuable versatility for the Tigers in early-season competition.

As both teams begin their climb toward OVC Indoor Championships, Saturday's meet provides TSU with its first full opportunity to evaluate lineup combinations, race sharpness, and team chemistry. With a mix of proven championship performers and rising contributors, the Tigers aim to establish a strong foundation as the indoor season begins.

Events to Watch
Men – Sprints: Agee, Akomolafe, McClendon
Men – Distance: Hooper
Men – Relay: 4x400 (Defending OVC Champions)
Women – Mid-distance: Hudson, Ali, Allison
Women – Sprints/Relays: Thomas

Know Before You Go
Meet: Commodore Challenge (Indoor Season Opener)
Host: Vanderbilt University
Date: Saturday, December 6
Start Time: 8:30 AM CT
Location: Vanderbilt Multipurpose Facility – Nashville, Tenn.
Coverage: SEC Network+
Parking: Available in designated Vanderbilt athletics lots