By: Norman O'Neal
The Voorhees University men's indoor track and field team continues to establish itself as a national powerhouse, delivering a series of standout performances across championship and invitational stages during the 2026 season.
National Championship Success
At the 2026 NAIA Indoor National Championships in Gainesville, Florida, Voorhees delivered an impressiveÂ
5th-place national finish out of 122 teams, solidifying its place among the NAIA elite.
Leading the charge wasÂ
Jaylen Burris, who earned:
- National Runner-Up in the men's triple jump
- 3rd place in the men's long jump
- Men's Regional Field Athlete of the Year honors
The team also produced multiple All-Americans, including:
Under the leadership of Head Coach Jeffery B. Hughes, named Men's South Region Coach of the Year, the program demonstrated depth, discipline, and national competitiveness.
Relay Teams and Sprint Strength
Voorhees showcased exceptional sprint and relay performances:
Individually, Zaireon Skinner added to the team's success with:
- 4th place in the 200 meters
- Top 10 finish (9th)Â in the 100 meters
Historic Performance at the Shamrock Invitational
At the Alan Connie Shamrock Invitational, hosted by Coastal Carolina University from March 19–21, Voorhees elevated its national profile even further. Competing against 45 teams from across the U.S. and Canada, the men's team finished national runner-up to UConn Huskies.
Triple Jump Sweep Dominates the Nation
Voorhees made history by sweeping the podium in the men's triple jump:
This trio is now ranked:
- Top 3 in NAIA
- Top 3 across ALL NCAA divisions (DI, DII, DIII)
Their performances also earnedÂ
provisional qualification for the 2026 USATF Outdoor Championships in New York City, marking a rare crossover into elite national competition.
High Jump Excellence
Deandre Jones added to the dominance with a leap of 2.11 meters (6'11"), currently ranking:
His performance also qualified him for the 2026 USATF U20 Outdoor Championships, highlighting his emergence as one of the nation's premier young jumpers.
 Women's Team on the Rise
 The Voorhees women's program continues to build momentum, led by standout sprinter Ciaro Johnson, whose performances in the 200 meters signal a bright future for the team.
A Program Worth Celebrating
From national championship finishes to record-breaking jumps and elite-level qualifications, Voorhees University track and field is making waves well beyond the NAIA level. With historic performances, rising stars, and strong leadership, the program affectionately known as "Da'Hees" is not just competing, but redefining expectations on the national stage.
About Voorhees University: Founded in 1897 by Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, Voorhees University is a private, coeducational institution affiliated with the Episcopal Church and the United Negro College Fund. Driven by a mission to cultivate well-rounded graduates who integrate intellect and faith, the university emphasizes lifelong learning, healthy living, societal betterment, and a strong belief in God. Voorhees University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral degrees. More details are available at the Voorhees website (www.voorhees.edu). Questions about the accreditation of Voorhees University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website (www.sacscoc.org)
