Stevens Women's Track & Field Shines at Big Apple Invitational

Team showcases specialized training, data-driven performance analysis, and engineering expertise

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Stevens Institute of Technology women's track and field team recently delivered impressive performances at the Big Apple Invitational, highlighting broader trends in collegiate athletics. The team's achievements, including top finishes in pole vault and high jump, as well as personal records in weight throw and the 400 meters, reflect the growing emphasis on specialized training, data-driven performance analysis, and the synergistic relationship between engineering programs and athletic success.

Why it matters

The Stevens Ducks' strong showing at the Big Apple Invitational underscores the evolving landscape of collegiate track and field, where specialized training, data analytics, and the integration of engineering principles are becoming increasingly important. This trend challenges the traditional dominance of larger Division I programs and showcases the competitiveness of non-Division I athletes.

The details

The team's standout performances include Stephanie Ryazanova and Alexis Merola's shared second-place finish in the pole vault, both clearing 2.95 meters, demonstrating the increasing specialization within track and field. Additionally, Lauren Alley's personal best in the 400 meters (1:00.74) and her move into the program's top five all-time list highlight the impact of data analytics in coaching and training. The Stevens Institute of Technology's strong engineering programs also contribute to the team's success, as the application of engineering principles to athletic training, equipment design, and track surface optimization provides a competitive edge.

  • The Big Apple Invitational took place on February 5, 2026.
  • The Stevens Ducks will compete in the Boston University David Hemery Valentine Invitational on February 14, 2026.
  • The Stevens Ducks will also participate in the Widener Indoor Classic on February 21, 2026.

The players

Stephanie Ryazanova

A member of the Stevens Institute of Technology women's track and field team who finished second in the pole vault at the Big Apple Invitational, clearing 2.95 meters.

Alexis Merola

A member of the Stevens Institute of Technology women's track and field team who finished second in the pole vault at the Big Apple Invitational, clearing 2.95 meters.

Lauren Alley

A member of the Stevens Institute of Technology women's track and field team who set a personal best in the 400 meters (1:00.74) and moved into the program's top five all-time list.

Maggie Previglian

A member of the Stevens Institute of Technology women's track and field team who was the top finisher among non-Division I athletes in the high jump.

Stevens Institute of Technology

A private research university known for its strong engineering programs, which has demonstrated a unique synergy between academics and athletics.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Stevens Ducks' upcoming participation in the Boston University David Hemery Valentine Invitational and the Widener Indoor Classic will provide further opportunities to showcase their talent and contribute to the evolving narrative of collegiate track and field.

The takeaway

The Stevens Ducks' strong performance at the Big Apple Invitational highlights the growing importance of specialized training, data-driven performance analysis, and the synergistic relationship between engineering programs and athletic success. This trend challenges the traditional dominance of larger Division I programs and showcases the competitiveness of non-Division I athletes, signaling a shift in the collegiate track and field landscape.