It was a normal, busy day at the HUB-Robeson Center around noon, but the members of the women's track team added a little bit more commotion while they promoted today's Penn State National Open.

The team is hoping that the level of excitement the athletes built would carry over to the meet. A line of track athletes, including indoor and outdoor participants, passed out flyers to the passersby, asking, "Have you seen us lately?"

"People are taking a lot of flyers," junior sprinter Sara Shoaff said. "We are hoping that they come out this weekend for our National Open meet."

Students seemed interested in the team, and in the Big Ten Trophy that stood behind Shoaff. The Nittany Lions had greater confidence knowing that the symbol of last year's championship season provided the backdrop for their promotion.

Assistant coach Chris Johnson hopes the women can use the trophy as motivation instead of as something to help them reminisce about the past.

"It gives them a goal and something they can visibly see and try to attain this year," Johnson said.

Johnson said the team is on the fringe of the top 25 and a solid performance this weekend could move it into the lower half of the rankings.

The Lions hope to achieve that goal with some strong hometown support this weekend.

For Shoaff, an enthusiastic atmosphere helps boost her performance, she said.

"It keeps a little pressure on you to show up and do what you've been training to do," she said.

Another thing that could boost Penn State's performance is the unveiling of the Big Ten Championship banner, which the team hopes will set the stage for some big performances.

"They're looking for big things," throwing coach Dayna Holston said. "They just have to execute their performances."

Holston thinks junior thrower Jennifer Leatherman, in particular, is poised for a big day.

"[Leatherman's] had some really good practices and this will be a good competition for her," Holston said. "She's pumped for it."

Head coach Beth Alford-Sullivan said this weekend's atmosphere should provide good entertainment for Penn State students on a cold weekend.

"When you're in central Pennsylvania and it's January, it's indoor sports time," Alford-Sullivan said.