AUSTIN, Texas -- The University of Texas men's track and field program signed decathlete Shawn Schmidt (Plano, Texas/St. Mark's) to a National Letter of Intent during the fall signing period, UT coach Bubba Thornton announced Monday.
"We're excited to have Shawn join our program next fall," Thornton said. "He has great multi-event abilities. We look forward to getting him here to Austin to join a great group of decathletes."
Schmidt will add versatility to a Longhorns roster blessed with superior multi-event competitors. Having competed in decathlons as a prep standout, Schmidt will enjoy a smoother transition into the events as a collegiate athlete. Schmidt's high jump is a strength of his in the decathlon, having recorded a personal-best leap of 6-8.
Schmidt is no stranger to the Longhorns' home track at Mike A. Myers Stadium. Schmidt competed in the high jump and the 4X100-meter relay at the 2005 Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays.
