KIRKLAND, Wash. — The Northwest University track & field program opens the 2026 season with a balanced blend of experience, emerging talent, and a clear sense of purpose under Head Coach Mark Mandi. Following steady progress over the past year, the Eagles enter the spring focused on consistency and growth, competing with excellence throughout a long championship season.

Preparation for the 2026 campaign has been intentional across all event groups. Coach Mandi noted the team has embraced both the excitement of a new season and the patience required for one that extends into late May. That approach has carried into preseason training, where the emphasis has remained on consistency, commitment, and keeping Christ at the center of the program's daily work.

Since the conclusion of last season, the program has continued to take steps forward. Mandi credited a detailed training plan from the coaching staff, strong leadership from team captains, and a positive team culture as key factors in the program's progression. Delegation within the staff has also played an important role, particularly with Coach Corban leading the distance group, allowing Mandi to spend more time with the sprint and jump athletes while continuing to recruit.

The Eagles return several athletes poised for strong seasons. Sophomore Josiah Jaquith enters the year as a two-time All-American, earning honors in both outdoor track and cross country, and looks to build on his eighth-place finish in the steeplechase at nationals last spring. Rachel Elliott is coming off a breakout year that included significant progress in the 800 meters and a school-record performance in the cross country 6K this fall. The men's distance group, which spent much of the cross country season nationally ranked, is expected to produce multiple breakout performances during the track season.

Mandi sees team chemistry and leadership as defining strengths heading into 2026. With athletes committed to pursuing excellence both competitively and personally, he believes that performance gains and personal records will follow as a result of that foundation.

As the season gets underway, Mandi expressed excitement about the group's unity and direction, as well as the opportunity to send the senior class out with a memorable final campaign. With depth across events and momentum from recent seasons, the Eagles enter 2026 positioned for continued growth on and off the track.