With the Big East Conference track meet just around the corner, everyone is hard at work.
Especially Marquette sophomore, Joe Keys, who is fresh off breaking the Golden Eagles heptathlon record.
“It’s really exciting just to know that I can put up a bigger mark and actually compete really well. To put it all together is really exciting going into Big East because we haven't officially peaked yet in the weight room when we actually are I think it's going to be really exciting to see what we can do,” said Keys.
Recording a personal best in four out of 7 events, Keys racked up 5,241 points over two days in his most recent heptathlon; taking down current teammate - William Eggers' record by 7 points.
“He’s a great guy, he taught me a lot of about everything. He's really been like a role model to me throughout my years at Marquette. Right before the 1k when he knew it was possible to break his records, he came up to me and he just shook my hand and he goes, 'break the record,’ “said Keys.
Joe showed promise in year one, setting freshman records in both the heptathlon and the decathlon.
"Am I allowed to swear?"
— Delaney Brey (@DelaneyBrey) February 9, 2019
Best part of my interview with @Joe_Keezer 😂
This kid broke the @muathletics record in the #heptathlon 🏆
Find out how - 10 PM on @tmj4 👍 pic.twitter.com/7ZuBvoyCJV
But putting his name at the top of the list, this year proves he has only scratched the surface to coach Rick Bellford.
“This would be his 5th multi-event here at Marquette. Two indoor, two outdoor, and one indoor so far and he has done better at every single one. He is trending in the right direction and he has so much fun doing it. It's just so rewarding as a coach to see improvements,” said Bellford.
If your wondering between all the sprints, hurdles, and jumps that Joe has to do, which one is his favorite? Pole vault, obviously.
“Just to sprint with a giant pole and spring over a bar, it's just the concept of it, and flying up there is so much fun,” said Keys.
