FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – Leading the Big Sky with 39 automatic outdoor conference qualifiers, the Northern Arizona University track and field team will look to add to that number this weekend when the squad travels to Tucson, Ariz., to compete in the Jim Click Shootout Saturday, April 9.

The University of Arizona will play host to this weekend's festivities as the Lumberjacks continue to build momentum toward conference championships in a month. Receiving stellar individual performances at each of the first two outdoor meets, Director of Track and Field and Cross Country Eric Heins likes what he's seeing from the athletes so far this spring.

"I think that's the shocking part: the fact we've only had two meets and we look so strong," said Heins. "Usually, we're building and building throughout the year. I'm happy with where we're at, and I still believe we have the ability to build on top of what we've already accomplished these first two meets."

Among some of the notable names competing this weekend for NAU will be senior Futsum Zienasellassie and redshirt-junior Nathan Weitz, making their 2016 outdoor debuts in the 1500m. Senior throws athlete Adam Keenan and freshman sprinter Jasmine Malone—both of whom have excelled in their first full seasons as Lumberjacks—will also put their skills to the test Saturday in Tucson.

"[Zienasellassie] and Weitz open up this week for the first time this year, so that should be entertaining to watch them do their thing," said Heins. "Micael Ljungberg is throwing in the discus event, and he usually throws pretty well down in Tucson, so I'd watch out for him as well. Malone is having a great year so far, and that 4x400m group of Malone, Clarissa Maxey, Nicole Fotinos and Bria Edwards is something I'm excited to watch. I hope they go in somewhat rested to try to beat that school record this weekend."

Field events get underway from Roy P. Drachman Stadium at 9 a.m. MST Saturday with the women's hammer throw, while track events begin at 12:30 p.m. MST with the men's 3000m steeplechase. For all the news, updates and information related to the NAU track and field team, make sure to follow us on Twitter (@nautrackfieldxc) and like us on Facebook (NAUTrackFieldXC).