Next Early Collegian [Solomon & Hastings Sign]

[EPelle]

... just might be Shalonda Solomon.

http://www.thestate.com/188/story/72690.html

But as she mulls a decision to turn pro after this season, Solomon might be on her last college lap.

“There is a chance that I might leave,” Solomon said. “But it’s up in the air right now.”

[EPelle]

Re: Next Early Collegian Up on the Pro Tour...

Signs with Reebok:

http://www.presstelegram.com/sports/ci_6237539

Solomon will sign with Reebok and be represented by Mark Wetmore of Boston-based Global Athletics.

"You only get so many offers in your lifetime," Solomon said. "I've done a good job at Carolina and I think I can branch off and expand my athletic ability."

[gh]

There will be another announcement later today.

[gh]

Hastings joins her

story on front page

[EPelle]

As a professional 400m runner now, Hastings will want to prove her worth on the world stage... who discounts her chances at IAAF World Champs?

[ponytayne]

I thought Solomon would go after LAST year. She looked absolutely dominant in the East Regionals last year...smoked the field in 100 and 200. I dont remember what she did at nat'ls. But this year she was off...i am surprised that she COULD go pro after this season.

[ILoveTrack]

I thought Solomon would go after LAST year. She looked absolutely dominant in the East Regionals last year...smoked the field in 100 and 200. I dont remember what she did at nat'ls. But this year she was off...i am surprised that she COULD go pro after this season.

Going PRO and commanding good money are two different stories. Hastings is in a good position for negotiating a good contract, but Solomon is not.

[ponytayne]

I thought Solomon would go after LAST year. She looked absolutely dominant in the East Regionals last year...smoked the field in 100 and 200. I dont remember what she did at nat'ls. But this year she was off...i am surprised that she COULD go pro after this season.

Going PRO and commanding good money are two different stories. Hastings is in a good position for negotiating a good contract, but Solomon is not.

point well made.

[gh]

Solomon may actually be in better position now than she will be next year, and figure that the extra year of European revenue is worth it.

Anybody who waits until after NCAA next year is likely to find that the well is getting pretty close to empty in sponsorship money unless you''re a top-of-the-world-type breakthrough.

I'm guessing that the big companies may well be overspending a bit at this point in the jockeying to have all the proper Olympic talent tied up well in advance.

[gh]

Hastings signs with Michael Johnson (story on front page)