03-04-2025
Rockford University adding men's and women's track & field
ROCKFORD, Ill. – (WTVO/WQRF) — [From Rockford Univ. news release] Rockford University is adding men's and women's indoor and outdoor track & field to its palette of sport offerings beginning in the 2025-26 academic year. The addition of the track and field teams will give Rockford 17 varsity intercollegiate athletic programs.'We are extremely excited to add indoor and outdoor track and field programs to our list of sport offerings here at Rockford University,' said Director of Athletics Jason Mulligan. 'Expanding our athletic programs provides unique opportunities for talented and motivated student-athletes, which is a priority for our university. This expansion aligns with our commitment of providing a comprehensive and well-rounded athletic experience, fostering teamwork, sportsmanship and achievement both in athletics and academics. We all look forward to welcoming our new track and field student-athletes and to supporting them in achieving success at their meets and in the classroom.'Current Rockford University head cross country coach Kevin Niles has been tabbed to lead the track and field programs as well. Coach Niles will be tasked with rebuilding and reestablishing the rich tradition of the RU track and field programs. Rockford had 30 All-NACC performers in a total of 15 events over the time that the Regents previously competed in the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference. Additionally, the Regents had multiple individuals combine to win a total 16 NACC titles and one person qualified to compete at the NCAA Division III Championships.'I am honored to lead the return of Rockford University's track & field programs,' Head Coach Kevin Niles stated. 'We have already started recruiting and are looking for motivated young men and women who want to be a part of a team that will support them academically, personally and of course athletically. Track and field is a very diverse sport and will give student-athletes yet another reason to join the Rockford community. This will also bolster our cross country programs by giving those student-athletes more opportunities to develop and compete throughout the entire academic year.'
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