TAMPA, Fla. (May 25, 2018) – After an incredible senior campaign, Howard University jumper Dominique Cleggett ended her collegiate career at the NCAA Preliminary East Round on the campus of South Florida.
 
The New Orleans native took 42^nd in the women's long jump after registering 5.68 meters. Although the performance did not meet her expectations, Cleggett was blessed to have the opportunity.
 
"It was a cool experience competing against the top student-athletes in the region," said Cleggett. "It was awesome. I am glad that I had the opportunity to be here. I am blessed."
 
The competition started approximately 6:30 p.m. Friday night, but did not conclude until nearly midnight due to a lightning delay.
 
"It was tough conditions for all jumpers," said Howard Director for Track & Field David Oliver. "To start, then have a two-hour lightning delay, and start again is tough. That takes a lot of mental focus."
 
Director Oliver praised his senior for a remarkable season and her accomplishments at The Mecca.
 
"She had a great season overall," Oliver stated. "She's had consistent performances all year. To go out as a senior and win Penn Relays and medal at the MEAC Championships is huge. To compete at the NCAA level in two sports is an accomplishment. There's no need to hold your head down about that."
 
Cleggett ends her collegiate career as a two-time Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Champion with the Howard University Women's Volleyball team and a winner at the historic Penn Relays by earning the event's College Women's Long Jump title (20'3"); thus, becoming the first HU female student-athlete to win an individual event at the Penn Relays since 1985.
 
In the modern day, Cleggett is the only Howard female student-athlete to compete at the NCAA Tournament or Preliminary Rounds in two different sports (track & field and volleyball).
 
In an interview last week, Cleggett explained that she plans to continue her athletic career professionally overseas; however, unsure whether she will pursue a career in volleyball or track.
 
"I don't think I've reached my full potential yet," said Cleggett. "If I continue to train, I really think I can be great."
 
To view all results from Thursday's competition, please Click Here.
 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.