Central Washington Track & Field Team Shines in 2026 All-Region Honors
The USTFCCCA recently announced the all-region performers for the 2026 outdoor season, and Central Washington University’s Track & Field team made quite an impression. Thirteen athletes received a total of 22 honors in the West Region—14 for individual events and eight as part of relay teams.
In NCAA Division II Track & Field, top performers are recognized across eight regions. The top five individuals in each event, along with members of the top three relay teams, earn All-Region distinctions.
Team Highlights
Elise Hopper stands out by winning honors in six events, including four individual races: the 100m, 200m, 400m, and 400m hurdles. She also contributed to the success of both the 4x100m and 4x400m relay teams. Coach Jonathan Hill praised her dedication, noting she is truly one of the greats in the program.
Ellie DeGroot made a strong comeback from injury, earning accolades in the 400m hurdles and the heptathlon, while also joining the 4x400m relay team. Carley Huber, recognized in both the heptathlon and as part of the 4x400m team, also exemplifies leadership and skill.
Tehya Moore capped off her senior season with an All-West Region honor in the triple jump. Maliyah Gordon stood out in the shot put and received similar recognition. Relay team members Layla Fields, Zoe Gonzales, and Ashlyn Nielsen excelled in the 4x100m relay, while Donna Marie Harris joined the honors for the 4x400m relay.
On the men’s side, Drew Klein led with honors in both the 110m hurdles and the decathlon. His teammates Boogy Brown and Josh Boast also earned All-Region accolades, showcasing their skill and competitiveness.
The Role of Team Dynamics
Team dynamics play a crucial part in these athletes’ successes. The friendly competition among sprinters and hurdlers motivates them to reach their best. Freshman Colton Magruder made the All-Region team, highlighting the importance of mentorship among the athletes. Many began their training in different sports, but they’ve shown remarkable growth in track and field.
In recent trends, schools across the country are putting more emphasis on track and field, with increased enrollment in athletics programs. According to a recent NCAA report, participation in track and field has steadily risen over the past decade, reflecting its growing popularity among student-athletes.
For full details on all the USTFCCCA All-Region honors, check the official announcement here.
Central Washington’s athletes have shown that hard work and team spirit can lead to great achievements. Their performance this season is a testament to their dedication and talent.
