It's the halfway point of the indoor season for the Marquette track team, and to say it's been an up-and-down journey so far would be an understatement.

Marquette's performance in the Meyo Invitational at the Notre Dame campus this past weekend was very much a representation of its form all season — a few standouts, and then everyone else. For a team projected to stay competitive in the Big East pack, they're certainly right on pace. Despite some inconsistency, there is major potential in the group. And as they near ever-closer towards the Big East Championship in New York on Feb. 21, one word comes to mind: opportunity.

"I'm happy with how we've improved," coach Bert Rogers said. "Some have exceeded expectations, and others haven't quite gotten there yet. We're making some good strides, and it's another step towards doing well in the Big East."

Under Rogers, the team has gone nowhere but up. Marquette had just 16 qualifiers for the Big East Championships before he took over as coach. This year, Marquette has qualified 24 teams and individuals in 34 events already with another meet still to go before the Big East competition.

"I think we're ahead of where we were (last year)," said junior Erynn James. "I think people are taking the smaller meets more seriously, and bringing intensity."

James, who has battled injuries since April of last year, is back and in better shape than ever. The high-jumper set a personal record over the weekend with a leap of 5'8.75", taking third place in the event. The jump was almost two inches higher than her first-place performance at the Notre Dame Invitational earlier in the season.

But the performance of the weekend had to be from distance runner Eric Meissner, who recorded personal bests in both the 500-meter and 800-meter events.

"This weekend was our biggest accomplishment," Meissner said. "Going up against the best teams and hanging right with them, it was a big step for us."

Meissner has enjoyed an excellent season so far for the Golden Eagles. He leads the team with three Big East qualifications in the 500-, 600-, and 800-meters.

"Eric is someone I always expect to do well," Rogers said.

James, Meissner and several others will rest at this weekend's Hoosier Hills Invitational having already reached Big East marks. For those who haven't yet reached the plateau, the clock is ticking.

"The team is working on the Big East," said sophomore Alyssa Davis, who also set a personal record in the triple jump. "That's what's important to us."

What Marquette may lack in raw talent, they make up in sheer determination.

"It's the attitude that every week you have to go out there and get better," said senior Nick Van Deraa, who has been Marquette's strongest pole-vaulter this season. "It's working on form, timing, and putting things together. I know I can do it and have the confidence to succeed."