**Men’s Track & Field Shines with Fourth Place Finish at BIG EAST Championships**
**STORRS, Conn.** — The atmosphere was electric at the **2025 BIG EAST Track and Field Championships**, where the Villanova Wildcats showcased their talent, finishing an impressive **fourth** overall, racking up **95 points** in a competitive field.
### Liam Murphy’s Historic Achievement
Leading the charge was fifth-year distance runner **[Liam Murphy](https://villanova.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/liam-murphy/14947)** from Millstone, NJ. Murphy not only defended his title in the **1500 meters** but also clinched his **record-tying 12th conference gold medal**. This remarkable achievement places him in the pantheon of Villanova greats, underscoring his pivotal role on the team.
### Stellar Individual Performances
The championships saw remarkable showings from other Wildcats as well. **Sophomore [Dan Watcke](https://villanova.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/dan-watcke/14961)** from Hinsdale, IL, captured a **bronze medal** in the **800 meters** with a blistering personal best of **1:46.63**. Meanwhile, junior **[Sal Barretta](https://villanova.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/sal-barretta/14931)** from Whitestone, NY, made headlines by clocking in at **53.85 seconds** in the **400 meter hurdles**, marking his first of two All-BIG EAST honors on the day.
### Relay Action
The excitement crescendoed in the **4×400 meter relay**, where Villanova not only secured a **third-place finish** but also stamped their mark with their **fastest time in 14 years** at **3:09.25**. The relay team was a powerhouse, with Barretta leading off, followed by sophomore **[Ethan Walls](https://villanova.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/ethan-walls/14960)**, freshman **[Liam Gluck](https://villanova.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/liam-gluck/14966)**, and junior **[Luke Rakowitz](https://villanova.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/luke-rakowitz/14952)**. Gluck and Rakowitz demonstrated outstanding speed, recording splits of **47.40 and 47.72 seconds**, respectively, showcasing the Wildcats’ depth and determination.
### Dominating the Hurdles
Barretta and junior **[Ronan O’Neill](https://villanova.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/ronan-o-neill/14949)** from Wilmette, IL, paved the way with a **3-4 finish** in the hurdles, both lowering their personal bests. This marks a continuing trend for the Wildcats, as they’ve seen **two or more scorers in the 400 meter hurdles** for six of the last seven outdoor BIG EAST meets.
### Rising Stars
Watcke’s performance in the **800 meters** was nothing short of stellar. He not only finished strong but also secured a top 10 time on the East Region descending order list, a significant step toward qualifying for the **NCAA East Preliminary**. Freshman **[Ben Thomas](https://villanova.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/ben-thomas/14965)** also contributed, finishing **seventh** with a personal best of **1:50.25**.
In the sprints, sophomore **[Parker Turner](https://villanova.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/parker-turner/14959)** excelled, placing fifth in the **100 meters** (10.65) and sixth in the **200 meters** (21.51). Turner’s consistent improvement is noteworthy as it marks the first occasion he advanced to the finals of two individual events at the BIG EAST Championships.
### Field Events Highlights
In addition to track events, Villanova excelled in the field. Fifth-year senior **[Temi Ajirotutu](https://villanova.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/temi-ajirotutu/15194)** made an impressive debut in the discus, showcasing a personal best of **42.67 meters** to secure **sixth place**. This came as a pleasant surprise, given his background as a four-year offensive lineman on the football team.
### Looking Ahead
As Villanova prepares for the selections for the **NCAA East Preliminary meet**, set to take place in **Jacksonville, FL**, from **May 28-31**, anticipation builds for the next chapter in this remarkable sports narrative. The Wildcats have proven they have the talent, dedication, and spirit needed to excel on both regional and national stages.
For fans keen on following the Wildcats, stay tuned for more updates and moments that make Villanova a force in collegiate athletics!
