Wheeler helps Cougars defend Andrean title

Updated: April 30, 2011 11:18PM

MERRILLVILLE — West Side’s DeAushania Wheeler exited Andrean’s Eckert Stadium with four trophies in tow and a movie still in her plans.

Considering the way the Cougars’ sophomore performed at the Andrean Invitational Saturday, it’s a little surprising she wasn’t headed for the whirlpool and a nap instead.

Wheeler won the 1,600-meter run, beating Andrean’s Becca Conley, took first in the 800 and ran legs on West Side’s winning 3,200 and 1,600 relay teams.

“I’m a little tired after the last relay,’’ Wheeler said. “It was a good meet for us. We did wonderful today.’’

The Cougars rolled up 153.50 points to easily defend their team title and out-distance Bishop Noll (88.50) and Andrean (86).

Despite Wheeler’s incredible day, she didn’t earn the Most Valuable Performer award for the girls running events.

The MVP award went to Chicago Lindblom’s Shamier Little, who took first place and set invitational records in all three of her races. Little won the 400 — beating Bowman Academy’s Chayil Henderson — as well as capturing both hurdles races with record times.

“She deserved the MVP, but I would be pretty happy if I would have gotten it,’’ Wheeler said of Little. “I’m still happy with the way I ran today, but it don’t really mean nothing yet — not until the postseason. I’d have to say I’m happy with my performances today, but I’m not satisfied. I know I can do better in all my events.’’

Wheeler normally runs the 3,200, but was needed in the 1,600 relay Saturday, so she ran the 800 and on the relay instead.

“I’m really proud of her,’’ said West Side coach Veronica Williams.

“She had no idea of the strength she had last year. I was really impressed today with the way she performed. She really went out and held her own. She was running real good. I thought she ran a smart mile. She’s learned how to use good strategy in a race.’’

Bishop Noll’s Aysa Hobbs, who was named MVP of the field events, won the high jump
(5 feet) into a stiff wind. She also placed third in the 200, fourth in the 100, and ran a leg on the 400 relay team that placed second to West Side.

Henderson, who missed last season after tearing the ACL in her right knee, was impressive. The junior won the 100 (12.78) and 200 (26.23) and placed second to Little in the 400. Henderson also ran the anchor leg on the Eagles’ 1,600 relay team that finished second to West Side.

Henderson, another candidate for MVP, has goals to win sectional titles in the 100, 200 and 400 and get her times down to qualify for state.

“I’m pretty happy with my meet overall, especially coming off a meet (Friday) night,’’ she said. “My goal was to come here and win the MVP award like I did when I was a freshman. But that girl (Little) is fast. I have to give it to her.’’

Bowman competed in the prestigious Lukens Relays in Kalamazoo, Mich., Friday night and didn’t return to the school until 11 p.m.

Hammond sprinter Tiara Reed missed Saturday’s meet with an injury she suffered at the Highland Invite four days ago.

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