Rowan University’s Jones and Deal Shine as USTFCCCA Regional Award Winners!

GLASSBORO, NJ — The United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) recently recognized two outstanding athletes, Izzy Deal and Nyla Jones, in their 2025 NCAA Division III Outdoor Track & Field Regional Awards.

Izzy Deal earned the title of Metro Region Field Athlete of the Year. This season, she achieved remarkable success at the NCAA Division III Outdoor Track & Field Championships, securing All-American honors by finishing sixth in the shot put and 12th in the javelin. Earlier, she shone at the NJAC Championships, winning both the shot put and hammer throw, with her shot put throw of 14.12 meters marking a personal best.

Nyla Jones, a standout freshman, made waves by finishing fifth in the 400-meter hurdles at the NCAA Championships. Her stellar season included dominating performances at the NJAC Outdoor Championships, where she won the 400H and 100H. She also played a key role in the 4×400 relay team, which secured a spot among the nation’s top rankings.

The team finished as runners-up at the NJAC Championships and tied for 38th at the Division III Championships. This season marked the inaugural year for head coach Shedrick Elliott III, setting a promising foundation for the future.

As the sport continues to grow, statistics reveal a rising trend in participation at the college level. According to the NCAA, nearly 80,000 student-athletes competed in track and field in 2021. This growing community brings diverse talent and fosters competition, inspiring young athletes like Deal and Jones.

With voices from the coaching community echoing the positive impact of mentorship, experts emphasize the need for strong support systems for athletes. Past champions often credit their coaches and teammates as critical influences. This highlights the shared journey of training and triumph, something both Deal and Jones embody in their accomplishments.

The recognition of these athletes underscores the hard work and dedication required in track and field, reflecting not just personal achievement but a commitment to excellence in collegiate sports.



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