The University of Minnesota women's track and field team closed out fall practice with an intrasquad meet last Friday at the Minnesota Fieldhouse.Director of track and field and cross country Matt Bingle said that he was pleased with several Golden Gophers' improvement from this point in the season last year. Alena Brooks (1:30.99 in the 600 meters), Christina DeLakis (48 feet, 10 inches in the shot put), Todea-Kay Willis (19-3 1/4 in the long jump) and Jess Herauf (3,703 points in the pentathlon) highlighted the afternoon."We have seen a lot of improvement, but we still need to be in work mode," Bingle said. "We have lots of things to do before the heart of the season. I'm pleased with everybody's efforts, and they're all excited to compete."The Gophers will have a short rest period to regroup for the start of the season. Minnesota opens its indoor season on Jan. 12. Some of the team will travel to the North Dakota State Invite in Fargo, and the Gophers will host the Northwest Open at the fieldhouse.