BIRMINGHAM, Ala.—Alcorn State track athletes Trellas Forrest and Derrick “DJ” Williams delivered record-breaking performances at the 2026 Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Indoor Track and Field Championships held at the Birmingham CrossPlex.

Forrest, a senior recreation major from Winona, Miss., set a new SWAC record in the men’s 400-meter final with a time of 47.10 seconds. Williams, a sophomore sports management major from West Palm Beach, Fla., also set a record in the men’s 200-meter final, clocking 20.97 seconds.

Beyond their performances, both Forrest and Williams emphasized the discipline required to succeed at the collegiate level, balancing demanding training schedules with academic responsibilities.

“We’re student athletes first,” Forrest said. “Without academics, there is no track.”

Williams added that mental preparation plays a key role in performance. “I stay positive, trust the work I’ve put in, and come in with the right mindset every time.”

Head coach Alonzo Banks praised both athletes for their consistency and ability to perform under pressure. He also highlighted the importance of trust and individual development within the program, noting that each athlete is coached based on their unique needs.

“Our sport is very mental, and it’s individual first,” Banks said. “I take time to understand each athlete and what motivates them. When they step on the track, it’s just them in that moment, and they have to be ready. Forrest and Williams showed that they were ready.”

“Our sport is very mental, and it’s individual first,” Banks said. “I take time to understand each athlete and what motivates them. When they step on the track, it’s just them in that moment, and they have to be ready. Forrest and Williams showed that they were ready.”

They finished the championships with two gold medals and multiple podium finishes across the men’s and women’s teams. The men’s team placed 10th overall with 29 points.

As they transition into the outdoor season, Forrest and Williams remain focused on building upon their success and continuing to elevate the program.

“This was a great weekend, but we know there’s more ahead,” Banks said. “I’m proud of what they accomplished, and we’re going to keep pushing.”