Virgin Islander Jacob A. Andrews, a standout sprinter for the USC Trojans
Virgin Islander Jacob A. Andrews, a standout sprinter for the USC Trojans, played a crucial role in helping USC win the NCAA Men’s Indoor Track & Field National Championship—a historic victory for the program. This marks only the third time in school history that USC has secured this title, with the last championship dating back to 1972.
Andrews, who has been a rising force in collegiate track, contributed significantly to the team’s overall success. He clocked a 45.56-second 400-meter race, securing valuable points for the Trojans. This performance placed him 4th in USC history for the event and added critical momentum leading up to the national championship.
In addition to his individual success, Andrews was an integral part of USC’s 4x400-meter relay team, which delivered an impressive time of 3:03.57. This time ranks 4th in USC history and is currently tied for 3rd nationally.
For those who have followed Andrews’ athletic journey, this milestone is the culmination of years of dedication. Many may remember him as the young boy smiling with a mango on the Ricky D’s LiciousEats banner or as the 14-year-old playing on the Virgin Islands Y17 team at the 2018 Dana Cup in Denmark, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious youth soccer tournaments. Now, he has grown into a star collegiate athlete, excelling in track and field at USC on a full scholarship.
His commitment to excellence extends beyond the 400 meters. Andrews has recorded personal bests of 20.97 seconds in the 200 meters and 10.47 seconds in the 100 meters.
The 2025 NCAA Indoor Track & Field Championships saw USC’s men’s team claim the national title, a feat they had not achieved in over five decades. The win was a testament to the collective strength of the team, with individual performances like Andrews’ contributing to the overall success.
Unlike traditional team-based competitions, NCAA track and field championships rely heavily on individual athlete performances, with competitors qualifying based on their season-long achievements. This structure allows for athletes from numerous universities to participate, making USC’s championship victory even more remarkable.
Beyond his personal success, Andrews’ achievements resonate deeply with his Virgin Islands family and supporters. His journey from local soccer fields to the national collegiate track stage is a source of immense pride for those who have watched him develop into an elite athlete.
