Track and Field Star Quincy Wilson Chooses University of Maryland: What This Means for His Olympic Journey!

Quincy Wilson, the youngest male Track and Field Olympian in U.S. history, made an exciting announcement: he’s choosing to stay close to home and will attend the University of Maryland (UMD).

“I picked UMD because it’s nearby,” Wilson said. “Being close to my family means everything to me.”

In a fun reveal, he cut a cake decorated in UMD colors, sharing his choice in style.

Head Track Coach Andrew Valmon praised Wilson’s unique talent. “He’s a generational talent, and we’re thrilled to have him on our team,” Valmon said. He believes athletes like Quincy are rare, and they can elevate the entire sport at UMD.

Originally from Chesapeake, Virginia, Wilson is a senior at Bullis High School in Maryland. He recently won gold in the 4×400 relay at the 2024 Paris Olympics. “Representing my home is special,” he explained. “I can have my family around and enjoy home-cooked meals from my mom.”

The legacy of UMD’s Track and Field program is strong. Olympic gold medalist and UMD alumna Thea LaFond, who hails from Silver Spring, Maryland, commented on the program’s growth. After witnessing the challenging times when the men’s team was cut, she’s excited about its resurgence. “Quincy gets to set the standard for Maryland track and field,” she noted.

LaFond originally committed to Penn State but switched after visiting UMD. She highlighted the growing trend of local athletes sticking around to compete for UMD. “It’s a great time to be a Terp.”

Recent trends show more young athletes choosing to stay in their home states for college, fostering a sense of community and local pride. In fact, a survey by the NCAA found that 60% of high school athletes prefer to stay in-state when selecting a college. This trend is changing the landscape of college sports, creating local heroes who can inspire future generations.

As UMD continues to attract top talent, the university’s athletic programs are poised for an exciting future. With stars like Quincy Wilson leading the way, the pride of Maryland athletics shines brighter than ever.



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Maryland, Olympics, University of Maryland (UMD)