If you’re driving through Greeley, Colorado, you might see the wind whipping across the plains and think it’s just another day in Weld County. But over at Nottingham Field, that wind is usually trailing behind a group of athletes who are quietly turning the Big Sky Conference upside down. Honestly, the university of northern colorado track and field program used to be one of those "middle-of-the-pack" stories people ignored.
Not anymore.
Lately, the Bears have shifted from just showing up to actually taking over. Whether it’s Jerome Campbell scorching the hurdles or Kiana Van Haaren launching herself into the record books, the energy around this program has changed. It's grittier. It’s faster. And it’s definitely more dangerous for the rest of the conference.
Why the Bears are Suddenly Dominating the Big Sky
You can’t talk about this team without talking about the hurdles. Jerome Campbell isn't just "good for UNC." He’s a national-level problem. In the 2025 season, Campbell didn't just win; he dominated, clocking a 13.54 in the 110m hurdles that put him #7 in the entire NCAA at one point. That’s not a fluke. When a kid from Greeley is outrunning SEC and Big Ten talent at the Oregon Open, you have to start paying attention.
Then there’s the speed.
👉 See also: LeBron James Without Beard: Why the King Rarely Goes Clean Shaven Anymore
Zander Cruzan, the Big Sky Freshman of the Year, has been a revelation. Watching him run the 400m is basically a masterclass in pacing. He recently broke the 46-second barrier, hitting a 45.61 that erased records some people thought would stand for a decade. It’s sort of wild to think that a freshman is already the guy everyone else is chasing.
The Record-Breakers You Need to Know
The women’s side of the university of northern colorado track and field roster is just as stacked with history-makers. Kiana Van Haaren is the name everyone is circling right now.
Last April, she went out and shattered the school’s long jump record with a 6.24m (20'5.75") leap. To put that in perspective, she beat a record held by Alisha Allen since 2015. It wasn't just a win; it was a statement. She’s currently sitting in the conversation for the top jumper in the Big Sky, and she’s only getting more consistent with her marks.
- Jerome Campbell (110m Hurdles): 13.54 seconds—literally top-tier national speed.
- Kiana Van Haaren (Long Jump): 6.24m—New school record-holder and conference threat.
- Zander Cruzan (400m): 45.61 seconds—The future of the Big Sky sprints.
- Shantell Hafner (Distance): Clocked a 4:32.15 in the 1500m, moving her into the #8 spot all-time at UNC.
It’s not just about the "stars," though. The depth is what actually wins conference titles. Look at guys like Edgar Garcia in the 100m or Nathan Plant in the 800m. They might not always get the headline, but they’re the ones racking up those 4th and 5th place points that keep UNC at the top of the standings.
✨ Don't miss: When is Georgia's next game: The 2026 Bulldog schedule and what to expect
The "Wayne Angel" Effect
Let's be real: coaching matters. Director of Track & Field Wayne Angel has a specific vision for this program. He isn't interested in just competing locally. If you look at the 2025-26 schedule, these athletes are traveling everywhere—Reno, Lincoln, Albuquerque, and even the Tyson Invitational in Arkansas.
Basically, he’s throwing them into the deep end against the best in the country.
"Our schedule is made for both growth and excellence," Angel said when announcing the 2026 slate. He’s right. You don't get faster by running against people you can already beat. By the time the Big Sky Indoor Championships roll around in Pocatello this February, these kids have already seen the fastest runners in the SEC. They aren't intimidated anymore.
What's Happening Right Now (2026 Season)
As of January 2026, the indoor season is in full swing. The team is coming off strong performances at the Silver State Invitational and is currently prepping for the Graduate Classic in Nebraska.
🔗 Read more: Vince Carter Meme I Got One More: The Story Behind the Internet's Favorite Comeback
The buzz is all about the multi-events. At the recent Big Sky Indoor Championships, Pollyea and Rembert showed that UNC isn't just a "sprint school." They were battling in the heptathlon, proving the Bears have the range to compete in the technical field events too. Moise Bennett has also been a name to watch in the 60m, consistently hovering around that 7.07 mark.
If you’re a fan, the outdoor season is where the real fireworks happen. The Jack Christiansen Invitational in March is the first big local test, but all eyes are on the NCAA West First Round in Fayetteville this May.
Actionable Ways to Support UNC Track
If you actually want to follow the university of northern colorado track and field team without just Refreshing Twitter (X) every five minutes, here is how you do it:
- Watch on ESPN+: Most Big Sky Championship events are now streamed here. It’s the easiest way to see the hurdles and relays live.
- Check TFRRS: If you're a stat nerd, the Track & Field Results Reporting System (TFRRS) is where the real, unedited data lives. You can see every split and every jump for every athlete.
- Attend the Doug Max Invite: It’s just down the road at CSU in Fort Collins. It’s usually the best chance for local fans to see the Bears compete against Power Four talent in person.
- Follow the Official Archive: The UNC Bears website keeps a story archive that is surprisingly detailed, often posting results within an hour of the meet ending.
The program is clearly on an upward trajectory. With the 2026 Big Sky Outdoor Championships headed to Portland in May, the Bears are positioned to do more than just participate—they’re looking to bring some hardware back to Greeley. Keep an eye on those hurdle lanes; that's where the magic is happening.