JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jackson State men's outdoor track freshman Sherman Hawkins Jr. qualified for the NCAA Championship in the high jump after qualifying Friday in the NCAA East Regional.

Hawkins finished tied for seventh and was the only freshman to advance in the event. After advancing in competition clearing at 2.04 meters (6' 8 ¼"), Hawkins cleared the bar at 2.09 meters (6' 10 ¼") to qualify for the national championship and finished the meet clearing 2.14 meters (7' ¼").

"I am very blessed to have the talent and receive the experience/exposure to compete at the next level at such a young age," Hawkins said. "All praise to the most-highest."

Hawkins becomes the first JSU outdoor track athlete to qualify for the national championship meet since Anaso Jobodwana in the 100 and 200 meter dashes in 2013.

"This is a great accomplishment for Sherman and (jumps) Coach Mark Spooner," said Jackson State head track and field coach Mark Thorne.  "It says a great deal about our program at JSU, for the hard work that the coaches and athletes put in during the season."

Hawkins will compete in the national championship Friday, June 9 at 7:30 p.m. in Austin, Texas.

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