Renowned for its competitive spirit and exceptional talent, the City University of New York Athletic Conference (CUNYAC) has unveiled its prestigious All-Star honors for the 2024-25 men’s indoor track and field season. Medgar Evers’ Jahiem Johnson retained his title as Track Athlete of the Year, while Hunter’s Solomon Kumi was crowned Field Athlete of the Year. Reco Griffith of Medgar Evers secured Rookie of the Year recognition, and Cougar head coach Hugh Reid claimed Coach of the Year accolades for the second consecutive year. Additionally, Dontay Washington of Medgar Evers received the Sportsmanship Award.

Unveiling Excellence: The CUNYAC's Celebrated Achievements

Track Mastery: Jahiem Johnson's Dominance

Jahiem Johnson of Medgar Evers continues to set the standard in the world of indoor track and field with his remarkable performances. This season, Johnson not only repeated as the Track Athlete of the Year but also established himself as a force to be reckoned with across multiple events. His personal best times in the 400 meters (51.19 seconds), 60 meters (7.17 seconds), and 200 meters (22.10 seconds) highlight his versatility and prowess on the track. At the CUNYAC Championship, Johnson showcased his skill by securing first place in the 400-meter dash, second in the 200-meter race, and third in the 60-meter sprint. Furthermore, his contribution to the Cougars' triumphant 4x400 relay team underscores his pivotal role in the team's success.Johnson's achievements extend beyond mere numbers; they reflect a commitment to excellence that inspires both teammates and competitors alike. His ability to maintain peak performance under pressure exemplifies the qualities of a true leader. As the face of Medgar Evers’ track program, Johnson’s legacy is one of relentless pursuit of greatness, setting benchmarks for future athletes to aspire to.

Field Supremacy: Solomon Kumi's Versatility

Solomon Kumi of Hunter College has emerged as the epitome of field excellence within the CUNYAC this season. Known for his incredible jumps, Kumi dominated the high jump with an impressive mark of 1.83 meters and excelled in the triple jump with a distance of 12.63 meters. Additionally, he ranked fourth in the long jump with a leap of 6.05 meters. These accomplishments earned him the title of Field Athlete of the Year and solidified his status as an all-around athlete capable of delivering in various disciplines.Kumi’s contributions were instrumental in Hunter’s overall performance at the CUNYAC Championship, where he clinched gold in the triple jump and silver in both the high jump and 60-meter hurdles. His bronze medal in the long jump further demonstrated his consistency and dedication to mastering diverse skills. Beyond individual accolades, Kumi’s MVP performance at the championship inspired his teammates and left a lasting impression on spectators and peers alike.

Rising Star: Reco Griffith's Breakthrough Season

The emergence of Reco Griffith from Medgar Evers as the Rookie of the Year marks a significant milestone in the conference’s history. Griffith shattered records with his blistering times in the 60-meter dash (6.90 seconds) and 200-meter race (21.87 seconds). His fifth-place finish in the 400 meters (54.88 seconds) adds depth to his burgeoning reputation as a versatile sprinter. At the CUNYAC Championship, Griffith captured three gold medals, asserting dominance in the 60-meter and 200-meter dashes, as well as contributing to the Cougars’ victorious 4x400 relay team.Griffith’s rapid ascent is a testament to his natural talent combined with diligent training and unwavering determination. As a newcomer, he has already made waves in the collegiate athletics scene, positioning himself as a formidable competitor for years to come. His achievements underscore the importance of nurturing young talent and fostering environments conducive to growth and development.

Leadership Excellence: Hugh Reid's Coaching Prowess

Under the guidance of Coach Hugh Reid, Medgar Evers achieved unparalleled success, culminating in their second consecutive CUNYAC Championship title. Reid’s strategic acumen and motivational leadership propelled the Cougars to secure nine individual event victories at the championship. His recognition as Coach of the Year for the second straight year reflects his profound impact on the team’s trajectory.Reid’s approach emphasizes holistic development, focusing not only on athletic performance but also on instilling values such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience. By cultivating an environment where athletes can thrive both personally and professionally, Reid has established himself as one of the premier coaches in collegiate athletics. His influence extends beyond the confines of the track, leaving a lasting legacy that resonates with current and future generations of athletes.

Sportsmanship Embodied: Dontay Washington's Legacy

Dontay Washington of Medgar Evers exemplifies the essence of sportsmanship through his actions and demeanor both on and off the field. Recognized with the Sportsmanship Award, Washington serves as a role model for aspiring athletes, demonstrating the importance of integrity, respect, and humility in competition. His inclusion in the Sportsmanship Team alongside Nelson Benzan Jr., Angel Martinez, Richard Reyes, and others highlights the collective commitment to upholding these principles within the CUNYAC.Washington’s contributions extend beyond athletic achievements, emphasizing the significance of character and conduct in shaping the culture of collegiate sports. His dedication to promoting positive interactions and fostering camaraderie among competitors sets a benchmark for others to emulate. Through his example, Washington reinforces the idea that true success encompasses more than just winning—it involves embodying the spirit of fair play and mutual respect.