The University of Central Missouri’s Jennies Track & Field program has announced the addition of 26 new student-athletes to its roster for the 2025 season. Head coach Kevin Paterson introduced the incoming class on Tuesday, highlighting their range of skills and potential contributions to the team.
“This group of newcomers brings a depth of skill, a hunger to compete, and an energy level that will help continue to elevate the Jennies Track & Field program,” Paterson said. “From sprinters to distance runners, jumpers to throwers, each student-athlete adds a unique strength to the roster.”
Paterson emphasized that this recruiting class not only addresses specific needs but also increases internal competition and raises performance standards within the team. He noted that such additions can set up future success for both conference and national competitions.
UCM’s track & field tradition includes many years of achievements at various levels. The new recruits are expected to build on this foundation as they prepare for upcoming seasons.
The Jennies will begin their 2025-26 campaign at the Washburn Alumni Invitational in Topeka, Kansas, scheduled for December 6.
The list of new athletes covers all event groups:
– Sprints: Grizell Scarlett (Kingston, Jamaica), Oarabile Tshosa (Gaborone, Botswana), Chika Bakwunye (Benin City, Nigeria), Alexis Kinney (Kansas City, Mo.), Alyssa Anderson (Wentzville, Mo.), Mikayla Henry (Kansas City, Mo.), Ester Mau (Roseville, Minn.), Lexa Youngblood (Carthage, Mo.), Vayla Smith (Monett, Mo.)
– Jumps: Michenainda Artitus (Olathe, Kan.), Lauren Welch (Shawnee Mission, Kan.), Kaylee King (Richmond, Mo.), Kwyn Hamlin (Memphis, Mo.), Jolee Castro (Spring Hill, Kan.)
– Hurdles: Kendall Gray (Richton Park, Ill.), Tykeena McDonald (Chicago, Ill.)
– Multi-events: Journey Sanders (Cairo, Mo.)
– Throws: Stevie Samuels (Jefferson City, Mo.), Alyssah Price (Liberty, Mo.), Tailynn Buttenbach (McPherson, Kan.), Ellie Willnerd (Maryville, Mo.), Isabella Kulenkamp (Warrensburg, Mo.)
– Distance: Marianna Bizon (Borkowa, Poland), Kenzleigh Goans (California, Mo.), Madison Cross (Lee’s Summit., Mo.), Daniela Gonzalez (Sedalia., Mo.)
Each athlete arrives with notable personal records in their respective events.
Coach Paterson expressed optimism about what these newcomers could achieve alongside returning members. “A class of this size and talent doesn’t just fill gaps; it creates opportunity. It fuels competition within the team pushes everyone to higher standards and sets the stage for memorable performances for seasons to come.”
