March 13, 2012 – The second time at the NCAA III Track Nationals was a leap forward for Concordia University Chicago junior Merrell Davis (Milwaukee, WI/Milwaukee Lutheran) and for the Cougars' track program.
           
Davis placed 12^th nationally in the men's long jump March 9 at the Division III Indoor Nationals hosted by Grinnell (Iowa) College. Davis' three tries were recorded at 6.43 meters, 6.60m and finally 6.76m (22' 2 ¼”).
           
While his best mark did not qualify him for the final eight, there was still much to celebrate about Davis' season. Following on last year's appearance at the NCAA III Outdoor Nationals, Davis became the first Concordia male track athlete to qualify for the Indoor Nationals and second Cougar athlete overall (Davina Polk competed in the women's long and triple jumps in 1993). Davis set school records in the long jump and 60-meter dash this season, and his winning mark of 7.14m at the Northern Athletics Conference Indoor Championship Feb. 25 earned him a new conference record.
           
“This was an eye-opening experience from which we learned a lot – not just Merrell but also our coaching staff,” said Matt Beisel, Concordia-Chicago head track and field coach. “Merrell's preparation leading up to the event was fine, and I don't think we'd do a lot differently. But the national meet is a huge difference in terms of intensity, energy and pressure. It's difficult to gauge that, although it's one of those things where the more you experience it, the more it helps you prepare for the next time.
           
“Merrell has now been a part of two national competitions and has made a special mark in the history of Concordia track and field,” added Beisel. “His efforts are an inspiration to our coaching staff and our student-athletes as we look to the future of our program.”