Stockton University’s track and field sensation, Kayla Kass, continues to make waves in the world of collegiate athletics. The talented sophomore from Bayonne, County Prep, recently received the prestigious New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Track Athlete of the Week award for her outstanding performance during the week of January 22-28.

This accolade adds another feather to Kass’s cap, as she had already established herself as a force to be reckoned with during the cross country season, securing the NJAC Runner of the Week title three times in the fall. Now, she has set a new benchmark for herself and her team in indoor track and field.

Kass’s remarkable achievement occurred at the John Thomas Terrier Classic at Boston University, where she shattered the school record in the 800m. The previous record, held for just under eight years by Cassandra Hrusko, stood at 2:18.37. Kass clocked an impressive time of 2:16.01, knocking over two seconds off the old mark.

Her performance at the Terrier Classic not only marked a personal triumph but also propelled her into a tie for 16th place in NCAA Division III rankings. Additionally, Kass now boasts the fastest 800m time by any NJAC runner this season, solidifying her status as a standout athlete.

In the highly competitive field of 156 runners, Kass finished 62nd overall and second among Division III competitors. Remarkably, she was one of just two Division III athletes to secure a spot in the top 70. Her dedication, skill, and determination were on full display, showcasing the caliber of talent present in Stockton University’s track and field program.

Adding to her impressive resume, Kass played a pivotal role in the Stockton women’s 4×400 relay team, contributing to their fastest time of the season with a mark of 4:02.16 at the same Terrier Classic. Her versatility and commitment to team success highlight Kass’s importance in both individual and team events.

This recent accolade follows Kass’s outstanding freshman year, where she qualified for the NCAA Division III Outdoor Track & Field Championships in the 800m event. Her success on the track continued into the fall, securing a spot in the NCAA Division III Cross Country Championships, where she finished 166th out of 292 runners.

Looking ahead, the Stockton men’s and women’s track & field teams, led by Kass, are set to showcase their skills at the NYU D3 Invitational at the New York Armory on Friday. As Kass continues to push her limits and break records, she exemplifies the dedication and excellence that define Stockton University’s athletic program. The university community eagerly anticipates what this rising star will achieve next on her remarkable journey in collegiate track and field.