BOSTON, Mass. - Clayton State University's Eric Simmons, making his first appearance at the NCAA Division II Indoor Track & Field Championships, finished a disappointing 10th in the prelims of the 400m dash on Friday at the Reggie Lewis Center.  Simmons (Carrollton, Ga.) ran 48.91 and just missed making it to Saturday's finals by one place.

 "He was ahead (in his heat) on the last turn, but broke down the last 60," said Laker assistant coach Clive Caesar, who accompanied Simmons to Boston. 

 Simmons had been bothered by minor injures the past few weeks after running 48.70 on February 4, winning the 400m event at the Carolina Invitational at UNC-Chapel Hill.  Before Friday's preliminary race, Simmons had raced only once since the UNC meet.

 Simmons experienced a similar outcome last spring at the NCAA Division II outdoor championships in which he missed making the finals of the 400m by tying for 10th place.

 Meanwhile, it was learned Friday night that for the second year in a row, Laker head coach Mike Mead was named women's South Region Coach of the Year.  Last season, Mead was the men's selection.

 Both Clayton State teams will now turn their attention to their outdoor schedule which begins March 25 at the Emory Invitational.