TSR Collaboration

Mar 1834 min

2024 D1 Indoor Track End of Season Awards

Written by Maura Beattie, Finn Birnie & Garrett Zatlin, votes via TSR D1 staff

Additional edits & commentary by Garrett Zatlin

Welcome back to a trimestrial classic, our End of Season Awards!

Below, we listed our five seasonal awards for the men and five seasonal awards for the women, all for the Division One level. These awards are a way to highlight the accomplishments of certain individuals from the entirety of the indoor track season. You'll also find our criteria for each of these awards as we list our nominees.

In the second-half of this article, you'll find the votes from our TSR contributors (click that link if you want to skip all of the summary parts).

Let's begin...

Best Freshman Award (Men)

*Athletes who hold freshman status stemming from any type of eligibility extension (not including missions) are not considered for this award. International freshmen are included amongst these nominees unless we have reason to believe that they do not meet our criteria. Performances past 3/9 are not considered.

Nominees: Tinoda Matsatsa (Georgetown), Leo Davis (Hampton), Habtom Samuel (New Mexico), Parvej Khan (Florida), Brian Musau (Oklahoma State), Denis Kipngetich (Oklahoma State), Peter Maru (Arkansas), Evans Kiplagat (New Mexico), Laban Kipkemboi (Oklahoma State)

Tinoda Matsatsa (Georgetown)

While many high school superstars require time to adjust to the rigors of the NCAA, Tinoda Matsatsa proved to be an exception. The Hoya rookie barely broke the collegiate 1k record in only his third NCAA race, clocking an impressive time of 2:18. By the end of his first indoor track season, he had achieved two sub-1:47 (800) marks and captured a silver medal at the BIG East Championships (800 meters). Despite showing signs of inexperience on the national stage, Matsatsa has displayed remarkable confidence on the track, a fearless attitude that promises great success in the future.

Leo Davis (Hampton)

Leo Davis arrived at Hampton with a 1:51 (800) high school PR. But after just one season with the Pirates, the rookie lowered that time down to a blistering mark of 1:47.05. Davis has made significant strides in fitness, showcasing improvement with each race. His impressive 1:47 mark at the South Carolina Invitational secured him a spot at the NCAA Indoor Championships in his debut collegiate indoor track season.

Habtom Samuel (New Mexico)

New Mexico’s Habtom Samuel established himself as an elite name by finishing 2nd at the NCAA XC Championships in the fall. Since then, the rookie has maintained his impressive trajectory. Samuel has pieced together an exceptional track resume, including a 3:53 mile (after conversion), a 7:40 (3k) effort and a 13:14 (5k) mark. Not only has he posted top-tier times, but he has also performed remarkably well at the championship level, securing 4th and 7th place finishes over 5000 meters and the 3000 meters, respectively, at the NCAA Indoor Championships.

Parvej Khan (Florida)

Florida’s newest Gator, Parvej Khan, certainly added some excitement to the men's mile this season. The rookie’s lethal kick has not only propelled him to some exceptional times, but it has also helped him excel at the championship level. Khan’s season was highlighted by a 3:55 mile mark, accompanied by three other sub-four clockings. He also secured an impressive upset victory at the SEC Indoor Championships and an All-American finish at the NCAA Indoor Championships.

Brian Musau (Oklahoma State)

After a stellar cross country season, Oklahoma State’s Brian Musau wasted no time in demonstrating his track prowess, posting an impressive 7:38 (3k) PR at the Boston U. Season Opener. As the new year rolled in, the distance star continued to showcase his exceptional speed with multiple 3:55 mile performances, contributing significantly to the Cowboys' national title-winning DMR. He capped off his season with a strong 6th place finish over 3000 meters at the NCAA Championships.

Denis Kipngetich (Oklahoma State)

Much like Musau, Denis Kipngetich was a superstar on grass, so it was no surprise to see the Cowboy shine over the 5000-meter distance. At the Boston U. Season-Opener, Kipngetich produced a very strong run, finishing in 13:26, a performance that earned him a spot at the NCAA Indoor Championships. Yet, before his journey back to Boston, he achieved a new 3000-meter PR of 7:44 and secured a 5k bronze medal at the BIG 12 Championships. The rookie then concluded the championship portion of his season with a 13th place finish at the national meet.

Peter Maru (Arkansas)

Arkansas’ newest star, Peter Maru, wasted no time making an impact. The Ugandan distance athlete opened his collegiate bank account with an exceptional 13:17 (5k) effort. And while that may not match his 13:07 PR, it's an impressive feat for someone with limited indoor track experience. Maru later capitalized on that momentum, claiming SEC indoor titles in both the 5k and the 3k. He concluded his season with a superb 5th place finish for 5000 meters.

Evans Kiplagat (New Mexico)

New Mexico's Evans Kiplagat seamlessly transitioned from a brilliant cross country season to an impressive indoor track campaign. The rookie notched a brand new PR over 5000 meters, clocking 13:26 to secure his spot at the national meet. Leading up to that meet, Kiplagat honed his championship racing skills with a pair of silver medals in both the 3k and the 5k at the Mountain West Conference Championships. While his 15th place finish at the NCAA Indoor Championship might not have been the pinnacle of his season, it was still a winter campaign to be proud of for the Lobo youngster.

Laban Kipkemboi (Oklahoma State)

Oklahoma State miler Laban Kipkemboi quietly put together a strong set of results. A 3:56 mile for a true freshman is fantastic and it was certainly the highlight of his season. That performance set up Kipkemboi perfectly for a 3rd place mile finish at the BIG 12 Indoor Championships. There was plenty to like about Kipkemboi’s first season and he will certainly be one to watch during this upcoming outdoor track season.

Best Freshman Award (Women)

Nominees: Sophia Gorriaran (Harvard), Gladys Chepngetich (Clemson), Judy Kosgei (South Carolina), Doris Lemngole (Alabama), Amy Bunnage (Stanford), Zenah Cheptoo (Washington State), Sophia Kennedy (Stanford)

Sophia Gorriaran (Harvard)

Harvard’s Sophia Gorriaran entered college with a head-turning 2:00 (800) PR, a time that put her on our radar as a top contender in her marquee event amongst NCAA talent. Gorriaran was decent in her 800-meter season debut, recording a 2:04 mark, but she quickly rebounded one week later by running 2:01. During the championship portion of the season, the Crimson freshman dominated the 800 meters at the Ivy League Championships before turning her attention to the NCAA Indoor Championships. Inexperience took its toll on Gorriaran at the indoor national meet as she failed to qualify for the 800-meter final, but she still has three years to land herself at the top.

Gladys Chepngetich (Clemson)

After a stellar cross country season that resulted in an All-American honor, Clemson’s Gladys Chepngetich carried that momentum over to the track and surprised us by focusing on the 800 meters. The freshman ran her 2:01 (800) PR on her home track at the Clemson Tiger Paw Invite, putting her name into the conversation to vie for an All-American finish at the indoor national meet. Chepngetich fell half a second shy of qualifying for the NCAA final, but that doesn’t take away from her consistency and impeccable range.

Judy Kosgei (South Carolina)

South Carolina is joining the distance scene thanks to Judy Kosgei and the freshman’s 2:02 (800) and 4:34 (mile) performances this past winter. Kosgei opened her indoor track season with respectable times, but she really took off in February. Her mile effort at Boston U. was solid. However, the race that really set Kosgei apart was her 2:02 (800) mark for 3rd place at the SEC Indoor Championships. Kosgei, who we expected to be more of a 5k/3k talent following a stellar cross country season, proved that she’s got a set of wheels on her.

Doris Lemngole (Alabama)

With an already impressive resume following her strong cross country campaign, Doris Lemngole of Alabama excelled on the indoor track, especially when it came to the 5000 meters. At the Boston U. Valentine Invite, Lemngole ran herself into the collegiate record book with the NCAA #2 all-time 5k mark of15:04, a time setting herself up for success during the postseason. At the NCAA Indoor Championships, the Crimson Tide star closed extremely well in the 5k before settling for 4th place, still nothing to write off. The freshman also earned 3k All-American honors with a 3rd place finish and 8:50 PR.

Amy Bunnage (Stanford)

Amy Bunnage only ran three races this past indoor track season and of those, a 15:11 (5k) performance stands out amongst the others. Stanford’s Aussie freshman prepped for her NCAA 5k debut by running 8:54 for the 3k, a strong time behind a slew of BYU Cougars at the Husky Invite. When Bunnage toed the line for the 5k at the Ken Shannon Last Chance Invite, she remained composed amongst the professional athletes before crossing the line with one of the best times in the NCAA regardless of track size. Unfortunately, the Cardinal ace didn’t contest the 5k at the NCAA Indoor Championships, but that still doesn’t take away from what Bunnage accomplished on the indoor oval.

Zenah Cheptoo (Washington State)

Zenah Cheptoo was an unknown for much of the indoor track season, but she changed that big time when she ran 8:56 (3k) at the Ken Shannon Last Chance Invite. Prior to that, the Washington State Cougar had respectable marks of 4:48 (mile) and 9:06 (3k), times we didn’t read too much into. Cheptoo showed us that she just needed time to get her legs under her and that we can’t count her out anymore as we head to the outdoor oval.

Sophia Kennedy (Stanford)

Stanford’s Sophia Kennedy has transitioned to the NCAA scene quite seamlessly, running PRs of 9:14 (3k) and 15:43 (5k) on the indoor track. Kennedy may not have been winning races, but she was consistently placing well amongst the top talents in the nation. The freshman earned the right to end her first indoor track season in a Stanford uniform in the DMR at the NCAA Indoor Championships, running 4:41 on the anchor leg. Things are just getting started for Kennedy and her career is trending in the right direction.

Most Improved Award (Men)

*Evaluates nationally competitive distance talents who were not expected to make the leaps in fitness that they did this winter. Prior seasons are used as a loose comparison tool when attempting to list nominees. Nominees for this award do not include true freshmen or athletes who were in their first season (not necessarily of indoor track) of collegiate competition. Performances past 3/9 are not considered.

Nominees: Theo Quax (Northern Arizona), Abel Teffra (Georgetown), Steven Jackson (Boston College), Luke Griner (Army), Matt Strangio (Portland), Isaiah Labra (Southern Utah), David Mullarkey (Florida State), Marco Langon (Villanova)

Theo Quax (Northern Arizona)

Make no mistake, Theo Quax was already a nationally competitive name prior to this season. With times of 3:58 (mile), 7:49 (3k) and 13:29 (5k), the NAU veteran was viewed as one of the more well-rounded distance talents in the NCAA. But in 2024, Quax elevated his fitness to an entirely different level, running jaw-dropping times of 7:39 (3k) and 13:16 (5k). Tack on an altitude converted 3:54 mile effort and you get someone who, fitness-wise, reached an entirely different tier.

Abel Teffra (Georgetown)

Taking that step from "good" to "All-American" isn't an easy thing to do. However, Abel Teffra seemingly did that this past winter. He was already a great miler, previously holding a 3:57 PR, but a new mile PR of 3:54, as well as a 5th place All-American finish, took the Georgetown ace to a new tier. When pairing that mile success with a blistering 2:19 (1k) performance, you get someone who became a legitimate factor in most races.

Steven Jackson (Boston College)

Most of you will probably say, "Steven Jackson's breakout season was last year! He had already run 3:57 in the mile!" That may be true, but up until this winter, Jackson had not validated that 3:57 mile result, leaving us to wonder if he was just a one-race wonder. That, of course, is not the case after seeing the Boston College star run a 3:56 mile PR in January and then run another mile PR of 3:55 in February. And with a third sub-four minute effort at the ACC Championships (and a spot on the natonal stage), Jackson was far more consistent this winter than he was in the winter of 2023.

Luke Griner (Army)

Prior to these winter months, Luke Griner held a PR of 1:48 for 800 meters. However, throughout January and February, the Army middle distance star became a metronomic 1:47 half-miler. In fact, Griner ran 1:47 four different times this season! The only race where he didn't run 1:47 was the 800-meter prelims at the Patriot League Indoor Championships where he ran 1:49. And when you pair that incredible consistency with a win over Cole Lindhorst, you get someone who was way stronger than in 2024 than he was last year.

Matt Strangio (Portland)

You could make the argument that Matt Strangio doesn't really belong in this section. He did, after all, hold personal bests of 3:59 (mile) and 13:30 (5k) prior to the winter months. Even so, this Portland veteran still dropped an incredible four seconds from his mile PR and went from having never broken 8:00 for 3000 meters to dropping an insane 3k PR of 7:39! Yes, he struggled on the national stage, but Strangio finally had the breakthrough season that we knew he was capable of...and then some.

Isaiah Labra (Southern Utah)

In comparison to a few of these other nominees, Isaiah Labra isn't quite as accomplished as far as accolades and raw times are concerned. However, from a time improvement standpoint, he is very much deserving to be listed. Prior to the 2024 indoor track season, Labra held unexciting PRs of 4:11 (mile), 8:07 (3k) and 13:59 (5k). Since then, he produced new personal bests of 3:58 (mile), 8:03 (3k) and 13:46 (5k). But maybe more importantly, Labra won the WAC indoor mile title and earned a 3:55 conversion in the process! That time allowed Labra to qualify for the national meet, a stunning development that we didn't expect to see from someone who was a 4:11 miler prior to January.

David Mullarkey (Florida State)

We'll admit, David Mullarkey may not necessarily be a good nominee for this award, largely because he was outstanding this past fall. Even so, we didn't expect this Seminole star to run 7:42 (3k) this past winter and improve upon his already-strong 13:37 (5k) mark to 13:28. A runner-up finish over 3000 meters at the ACC Indoor Championships to take down some big names, as well as a respectable 11th place effort at the national meet, was enough improvement in our eyes to put Mullarkey as a nominee for this award.

Marco Langon (Villanova)

Going into this past fall, we knew that Marco Langon was talented. But although he displayed a few moments of excellence, he struggled on major stages, making challenging to gauge just how good he was in comparison to a few other men. However, throughout these winter months, Langon continued to get better and better. He first ran a 3:57 mile time in mid-January and later ran 3:56 in the mile to secure a new PR a week later. And after running 7:47 (3k) in mid-February, Langon threw down an excellent 7:43 (3k) PR to become the last national meet qualifier over that distance.

Most Improved Award (Women)

NOTE: We have opted to make an exception for the women's "Most Improved Award" and have listed 10 nominees instead of nine.

Nominees: Sanu Jallow (Arkansas), Ainsley Erzen (Arkansas), Chloe Foerster (Washington), Anna Workman (Virginia), Kileigh Kane (Penn State), Kimberley May (Providence), Molly Born (Oklahoma State), Kenzie Doyle (UMass Lowell), Grace Hartman (NC State), Maggi Congdon (Northern Arizona)

Sanu Jallow (Arkansas)

While at Texas A&M, Sanu Jallow held an 800-meter PR of 2:05. That was a solid mark, but ever since coming to Arkansas, this still-young middle distance talent has been exceptional. The Razorback ace ran 2:02, 2:01 and 2:02 in three-straight meets this winter, the middle time being a new PR by four seconds (from last year). Oh, and she ran the NCAA #3 all-time mark for 600 meters (1:26). Simply put, Jallow looked like a completely new runner this winter.

Ainsley Erzen (Arkansas)

With nationally competitive pedigree from her high school days, we finally saw Ainsley Erzen produce results that we knew she was capable of. The Razorback runner not only ran 2:43 for 1000 meters, but she also earned a 2:02 PR for 800 meters! After going no faster than 2:06 (800) during her first year as a collegiate, Erzen's multiple seasons of stacking fitness clearly paid off for her.

Chloe Foerster (Washington)

Another star sophomore, Chloe Foerster may have had the most stunning performance of anyone in this section, running a 4:28 mile PR after posting a 4:36 mile mark two weeks earlier. She was also outstanding on the 1200-meter leg of Washington's DMR at Boston U. when they broke their own collegiate record. Admittedly, Foerster's breakout season was largely confined to those two races, but running an all-time mile mark almost out of nowhere usually gets you nominated for this award.

Anna Workman (Virginia)

Here's a fun fact: Anna Workman, despite being a junior, had never toed the line for a mile race as a collegian prior to this season. That's why you can imagine our surprise when the Virginia distance runner posted a huge 4:31.91 mile PR out of nowhere in late January. From there, she would run 4:34 at Boston University, earn bronze in the mile finals at the ACC Indoor Championships and qualify for the indoor national meet. Sure, Workman had put together some really solid results prior to this winter, but those paled in comparison to her most recent indoor track campaign.

Kileigh Kane (Penn State)

Kileigh Kane was a respectable distance talent prior to the 2024 indoor track season. Last year, she had run 4:38 in the mile and posted a few 3k results in the mid-9:20s. However, in 2024, Kane reached a new level of fitness and flexed the consistency to back it up. The Nittany Lion standout ran a new mile PR 4:32 this winter, but also ran mile times of 4:35 and 4:37 elsewhere. With a national qualifying spot in the mile and a silver medal from the BIG 10 Indoor Championships, Kane beat expectations by a fairly large margin this past indoor track season.

Kimberley May (Providence)

Some of our writers like this nomination a lot...and others don't. Don't be mistaken, all of us at The Stride Report are big fans of Kimberley May. However, some of us already saw her as a top mile threat this winter. Of course, based on times, this Providence star is plenty deserving to be here. Prior to the indoor track season, May had never run a 3k as a collegian. But in the two times that she toed the line for that event, she ran 8:54 on both occasions! She also took her mile PR down from 4:37 to 4:27, a mile PR which she ran twice, once coming on the national stage to earn bronze. From a strict times perspective, May could very easily be the favorite to win this award.

Molly Born (Oklahoma State)

Saying that Molly Born is one of the most improved distance runners in the country this past winter is accurate, but it also comes with a caveat. Outside of her excellent 10k PR of 32:42 from last spring a strong cross country season, Born had struggled with many of her races over the last few years. In fact, there were extensive streaks where she didn't race at all. That, of course, was due to injuries. Prior to then, Born was a top-20 All-American on the grass. But the winter of 2024 was the first time that we truly felt like Born was a top-tier All-American threat. Going from 15:36 to 15:35 (which converted to 15:23) to 15:20 (en route to 6th place All-American honors) is a series of 5k results that possibly exceed what Born had done at her prior peak.

Kenzie Doyle (UMass Lowell)

Before December 2nd, Kenzie Doyle had never run under 16:00 for 5000 meters. But at the Boston U. Season Opener, the UMass Lowell veteran threw down a HUGE personal best of 15:27 (5k) essentially out of nowhere. Doyle would go on to run PRs of 4:41 (mile) and 9:11 (3k), but that 5k result (which put her on the national stage) is still a result that sticks out as a very surprising outlier.

Grace Hartman (NC State)

We knew that Grace Hartman was talented and would be a top name in the NCAA one day...we just didn't think it would happen this early. After running 4:36 in the mile twice this season, Hartman ran a flat-track converted 15:29 (5k) mark and later went to the indoor national meet where she surprisingly earned the final 5k All-American honor! With each passing week, this NC State sophomore continues to beat our expectations.

Maggi Congdon (Northern Arizona)

Yes, Maggi Congdon was already a respectable miler last winter, holding a 4:38 PR. And yes, she had a strong cross country season, placing 60th at the NCAA XC Championships. Even so, none of that could have told us that Congdon would run 4:30 (mile) this season as well as 2:02 for 800 meters. Not only that, but she advanced to the finals in both of those events at the indoor national meet! We knew Congdon would be good, but maybe not that good...

Best Performance Award (Men)

*Must have run attached at least once this winter and must have been attached during the race in question. Multiple races over the span of a certain timeframe do not count as a lone "performance". However, performances that are amplified by the results of other meets/individuals with appropriate context are included. TSR writers can vote for the performance that they believe is either the most impressive, the most impactful, the most entertaining or the most surprising. Performances past 3/9 are not considered.

Nominees: Rivaldo Marshall Wins 800-Meter NCAA Title, Tinoda Matsatsa Breaks NCAA 1k Record in 2:18, Nico Young Runs 3:57 at 7000 feet, Earns 3:48 Mile Conversion, Luke Houser Fends Off Field to Win Mile National Title, Nico Young Runs 7:37 (3k) at Boston U. to Defeat Loaded Field, Ky Robinson Runs 7:36 (3k) at UW, Brings Three Others Under 7:40, Graham Blanks Runs (Brief) NCAA 5k Record of 13:03 at Boston U., Nico Young Runs NCAA 5k Record of 12:57 at Boston U.

Rivaldo Marshall Wins 800-Meter NCAA Title

Despite not being as stacked as initially anticipated, the men's 800-meter final on the national stage still brought fireworks. Amidst the chaos of the race, Iowa’s Rivaldo Marshall kept his composure, moving his way to the front as the bell chimed. And once he was there, the JUCO product produced a monster last lap to fend off the fast-finishing Sean Dolan for the victory.

Tinoda Matsatsa Breaks NCAA 1k Record in 2:18

Entering the NCAA, it was clear that Tinoda Matsatsa had a bright future ahead of him. After all, he had run 1:47 for 800 meters in high school. Yet, despite this, I don't think many were expecting him to have such a monumental impact in his very first collegiate season. In only his third race for the Hoyas, Matsatsa put on a fearless display, beating the collegiate record that had been set by 2023 NCAA indoor 800-meter national champion, Yusuf Bizimana, just one week prior. That confident, front-running display was only the beginning of what was a terrific first season for the Hoya rookie.

Nico Young Runs 3:57 at 7000 feet, Earns 3:48 Mile Conversion

Nico Young’s 3:57 mile at 7000 feet was just one of the amazing accomplishments that the NAU star achieved this winter. The Lumberjack ace put on a clinic at his home track, front-running his way to an unfathomable 3:57. To run under four minutes at 7000 feet above sea level is one thing, but to surpass it by that much is next level. That impressive feat earned him a monstrous conversion of 3:48 which remained at the top of the national leaderboard all season long (with no one coming all that close to it).

Luke Houser Fends Off Field to Win Mile National Title

Washington’s Luke Houser entered the NCAA Championships as the defending mile national champion and the fastest man in the field. Despite the target on his back, Houser raced with exceptional composure. He strategically surged ahead with 800 meters remaining, progressively increasing the tempo with each lap. On the bell lap, he refused to relinquish the rail, fending off every move that came his way. His display of tactical expertise ultimately led him to his second NCAA title.

Nico Young Runs 7:37 (3k) at Boston U. to Defeat Loaded Field

On his first trip to Boston, Nico Young showcased his newfound finishing speed, clocking an exceptionally fast 7:37 (3k) mark en route to victory over a stacked collegiate and pro field. As he rounded the final bend, Young appeared to tap into an additional gear, propelling himself into the lead. That kind of closing speed was something that we hadn't seen from the NAU standout before and it was a very clear sign of things to come.

Ky Robinson Runs 7:36 (3k) at UW, Brings Three Others Under 7:40

Stanford’s Ky Robinson bounced back from an underwhelming 5k with one of the fastest 3000-meter times in collegiate history. In what was a historically fast race, Robinson remained extraordinarily calm despite facing a late challenge from NAU’s Aaron Las Heras. As they reached the final straightaway, Robinson effortlessly responded, breezing to a 7:36 clocking and leading three other athletes under the 7:40 mark.

Graham Blanks Runs (Brief) NCAA 5k Record of 13:03 at Boston U.

Following an outstanding victory at the NCAA XC Championships, Harvard’s Graham Blanks decided to make the most of his endurance by entering the 5k at the Boston U. Season-Opener. His performance there was nothing short of extraordinary as he shattered the collegiate record by three seconds, taking down a highly competitive field in the process. Although this record may have been broken after only a few months, it doesn't diminish the sheer impressiveness of his achievement and the standard that he set.

Nico Young Runs NCAA 5k Record of 12:57 at Boston U.

To be quite honest, no matter how many times we write about this, we will probably never give this performance the justice that it deserves. 12:57 for 5000 meters. An NCAA record. An Olympic standard. The first collegiate to ever run under 13 minutes. It's a simply unfathomable result.

Best Performance Award (Women)

Nominees: Michaela Rose Solos 1:59.25 (800) for NCAA #2 All-Time (Indoor), Juliette Whittaker Takes Down Rose for NCAA Title in 1:59.53 (800), Maia Ramsden Runs 4:24 Mile PR at Millrose Games for NCAA #2 All-Time, Maia Ramsden Throws Down Big Last Lap to Win Mile NCAA Title in 4:25, Olivia Markezich Outruns Elite 3k Field in 8:40 for NCAA #2 All-Time Mark, Parker Valby Runs 8:41 (3k) For NCAA #3 All-Time to Win NCAA Title, Parker Valby Runs 14:56 (5k) at Boston U. & Becomes First NCAA Women Sub-15:00, Parker Valby Runs 14:52 (5k) to Break Own Record & Win NCAA Title

Michaela Rose Solos 1:59.25 (800) for NCAA #2 All-Time (Indoor)

LSU’s Michaela Rose ran away from the field at the SEC Indoor Championships over 800 meters en route to a wire-to-wire win. The Tiger star wound up posting a phenomenal time of 1:59.25 (800), a mark that was three seconds ahead of the field. That race also earned Rose the NCAA #2 all-time mark for the indoor 800 meters.

Juliette Whittaker Takes Down Rose for NCAA Title in 1:59.53 (800)

Coming into the NCAA Indoor Championships, Stanford’s Juliette Whittaker was in the conversation for a top-three finish over 800 meters given her runner-up performance at the 2023 indoor national meet. However, the sophomore outperformed that expectation by using a late kick to take down pre-race favorite, Michaela Rose. Whittaker survived the prelims with a win and in the finals, she bided her time until catching a second wind en route to a 1:59 (800) meet record. Taking down Rose was no easy task, but the Stanford ace was the only one in the field who had a chance to match Rose’s abilities.

Maia Ramsden Runs 4:24 Mile PR at Millrose Games for NCAA #2 All-Time

In a field full of professionals at the Millrose Games, Maia Ramsden held her own and ran herself into the collegiate record book with an NCAA #2 all-timer mile effort. For the Harvard athlete, she knocked six seconds off of her previous PR en route to the 4:24 (mile) showing, a time that was only a mere 0.57 seconds shy of taking down Katelyn Tuohy’s NCAA mile record.

Maia Ramsden Throws Down Big Last Lap to Win Mile NCAA Title in 4:25

Even though Harvard’s Maia Ramsden raced the World Indoor Championships one week prior and ran a stellar 4:06 (1500), she didn’t show any sign of fatigue when she ran 4:25 for the mile to win the title at the indoor national meet. After letting the competition do the hard work for her, Ramsden waited for the final 400 meters to make her move, taking the lead and closing the final 400 meters in a strong 30 seconds. The Harvard Crimson star’s versatility from the mile to the 5k gave her extra ammo to take down a field full of numerous sub-4:30 milers, a victory that we anticipated from the beginning of the indoor track season.

Olivia Markezich Outruns Elite 3k Field in 8:40 for NCAA #2 All-Time Mark

Following the cross country season, 3k steeplechase expert Olivia Markezich toed the line for the 3k at the Boston U. Season Opener and took down a strong field en route to the NCAA #2 all-time mark of 8:40. With a strong 1500-meter/miler in Maia Ramsden in the field, Markezich knew she had to take the kick out of her competitor and the Notre Dame senior did that after the 2000-meter mark. Markezich slowly started to ramp up the pace before running a 10-second PR and took down the field by six seconds.

Parker Valby Runs 8:41 (3k) For NCAA #3 All-Time to Win NCAA Title

It’s like clockwork with Parker Valby. Every time she races, she will a) win, and b) do so in a head-turning time. Nothing was different for the Gator junior over 3000 meters after her decisive move with 1000 meters remaining. For Valby, her 8:41 (3k) performance earned her a five-second victory over an experienced field and only makes her more lethal on the track.

Parker Valby Runs 14:56 (5k) at Boston U. & Becomes First NCAA Women Sub-15:00

After easily winning the NCAA XC Championship title, Florida’s Parker Valby surprised us by entering the 5k at the Boston U. Season-Opener, hoping to capitalize on her endurance. Well, she outdid herself in Boston by not only winning, but also by running the first sub-15:00 in NCAA women’s history. That was a stellar 36-second PR for the Gator standout. And even though she would run faster on the national stage, it was this mark that redefined expectations. Not just for Parker Valby, but for this era of NCAA distance running.

Parker Valby Runs 14:52 (5k) to Break Own Record & Win NCAA Title

Just when we thought Parker Valby couldn’t impress us anymore with her talents, she goes and breaks her own NCAA 5k record by running 14:52 at the NCAA Indoor Championships, completely obliterating the field by 23 seconds. Valby’s on a different level than her competition and there’s clearly no stopping her when it comes to the 5000-meter distance.

Best Distance Coach Award (Men's Teams)

*Considers performances throughout the entirety of the 2024 indoor track season. Success relative to seasonal expectations or success relative to historical accolades of the program are factored into account when listing nominees. Performances past 3/9 are not considered.

Nominees: Mike Smith (Northern Arizona), Andy Powell (Washington), Marcus O'Sullivan (Villanova), Mick Byrne (Wisconsin), Jeremy Sudbury (Iowa State), Chris Miltenberg (North Carolina), Chris Buckham (Arkansas), Brandon Bonsey (Georgetown), Dave Smith (Oklahoma State)

Mike Smith (Northern Arizona)

The NCAA 5k record holder. Three men in the top-15 for the indoor 5k all-time. A total of six men under 13:45 for 5000 meters. The fastest DMR time in the country. Three men under 7:40 for 3000 meters. Five men under 7:50 for 3000 meters. Four sub-four milers based on raw times. Three sub-3:55 milers after conversions. What more could you want?

Andy Powell (Washington)

As far as final outcomes at the national meet are concerned, the Washington men were likely looking for more. Even so, the three-headed distance monster of Luke Houser, Joe Waskom and Nathan Green were still outstanding, even if there were moments in the postseason that underwhelmed. With a top DMR time, Ronan McMahon-Staggs running 3:54 (mile), Leo Daschbach going under four minutes and Evan Jenkins looking like a future star, the Huskies still had a lot to be proud of this winter.

Marcus O'Sullivan (Villanova)

Villanova is the only team to have multiple men listed as nominees for our "Most Valuable Runner" award. Sean Dolan was the national meet runner-up over 800 meters and ran 1:46 three different times this season. Liam Murphy, meanwhile, was one of the most dynamic and versatile distance stars in the NCAA, capping his winter campaign with a 4th place All-American finish over 3000 meters. With Marco Langon emerging as a nationally competitive standout via his 7:43 (3k) PR, this may be some of Marcus O'Sullivan's finest work yet.

Mick Byrne (Wisconsin)

Coach Mick Byrne was once again excellent when it came to producing top stars. Adam Spencer ran 3:52 in the mile and looked like a national title contender (until he got silver) and Jackson Sharp came through once again for an 8th place All-American finish over 5000 meters. Abdullahi Hassan was an excellent 800-meter runner this winter despite what his 8th place All-American finish would suggest and Bob Liking was very underrated, posting times of 3:58 (mile), 7:46 (3k) and 13:28 (5k).

Jeremy Sudbury (Iowa State)

The elite middle distance reputation of Iowa State's program was alive and well this past winter. They had five different men run under 1:49 for 800 meters and two of those men -- Finley McLear (3rd) and Darius Kipyego (6th) -- were All-Americans on the national stage. We also can't forget that Iowa State's DMR earned All-American honors behind a 3:54 anchor split from Silas Winders and Said Mechaal's 13:27 (5k) PR put him on the national stage. In retrospect, this may have actually been one of Coach Jeremy Sudbury's better seasons.

Chris Miltenberg (North Carolina)

Helping Parker Wolfe go from "great" to "elite" is one major reason why Coach Chris Miltenberg is nominated for this award. However, with Alex Phillip qualifying for the national meet over 5000 meters and Ethan Strand earning top-half All-American honors, the Tar Heels were a team that seemed to have weapons all over the place. That couldn't have been more evident when their DMR surprisingly earned 4th place All-American honors thanks to a big anchor split from Jake Gebhardt.

Chris Buckham (Arkansas)

Arkansas' three-headed long distance monster of Peter Maru, Kirami Yego and Patrick Kiprop were obviously insanely impressive. However, it was the supporting cast of Ben Shearer, Reuben Reina, Riley Wells and Elias Schreml who offered valuable depth and valuable pieces towards an All-American DMR squad.

Brandon Bonsey (Georgetown)

The Georgetown men had only one individual All-American honor at this year's indoor national meet. That was Abel Teffra who capped a great season with a 5th place finish. Even so, the Hoyas nearly took home the DMR national title with a "B" team. Of course, there was nothing sub-standard about the men in that relay. In total, Georgetown had FIVE different men run 2:20 or faster for 1000 meters. They also had three sub-four milers and four men. run 1:48 or faster for 800 meters. And one of those men? That was Tinoda Matsatsa, a true freshman who ran the NCAA 1k record. Outstanding job to Brandon Bonsey who capitalized on his plethora of middle distance riches.

Dave Smith (Oklahoma State)

Even without Fouad Messaoudi, Coach Dave Smith still had one of his best indoor track seasons yet. Brian Musau and Denis Kipngetich both advanced to the national meet individually and it was the latter who became a 3k All-American after running 7:38 back in December. In fact, the same can be said about Ryan Schoppe. After defending their DMR national title, Alex Maier putting together an incredible double All-American display two weekends ago and four men going under 4:00 in the mile, you can see why Dave Smith is an easy name to nominate for this award.

Best Distance Coach Award (Women's Teams)

Nominees: Diljeet Taylor (BYU), Shalane Flanagan (Oregon), Mike Smith (Northern Arizona), JJ Clark (Stanford), Maurica Powell (Washington), Dave Smith (Oklahoma State), Will Palmer (Florida), Mitchell Baker (Georgetown), Nick Stenuf (Alabama)

Diljeet Taylor (BYU)

One could argue that there was no women's distance program that was as deep and as well-rounded as BYU's squad. They had a bronze medalist over 800 meters, secured the DMR national title and had two All-Americans over 3000 meters (one of those All-Americans, Lexy Halladay-Lowry doubled back from the 5k where she was also amongst the top top-eight). Lexy Halladay-Lowry, Jenna Hutchins and Aubrey Fretheway were arguably the best 5k trio in the nation. Meghan Hunter proved that she was legit, Carmen Alder was a mile national qualifier, Sadie Sargent was quietly one of the more valuable runners across all distances for the Cougars and Riley Chamberlain looks like a future superstar.

Shalane Flanagan (Oregon)

Arguing in favor of Shalane Flanagan is pretty simple. Both her and Diljeet Taylor were the only coaches to have five women run 4:34 or faster in the mile this winter. Of course, the Ducks proved to be plenty well-rounded too, earning All-American honors in the mile, the 3000 meters and the DMR. This may not even be the best version of the Ducks that we see in 2024, but they were still plenty impressive over these last few months.

Mike Smith (Northern Arizona)

Between Maggi Congdon's rise as a top-tier middle distance juggernaut and FIVE women running under 15:40 for 5000 meters, Coach Mike Smith did a brilliant job of building nationally competitive depth with his women's group.

JJ Clark (Stanford)

The final results may not have been as glorious as last year, but the Stanford women were still really good. Juliette Whittaker ran 1:59 for 800 meters (and won a national title) while Roisin Willis ran 2:00 for that same distance. Amy Bunnage became one of the fastest indoor 5k runners in NCAA history, Lucy Jenks advanced to the national meet over 5000 meters and Sophia Kennedy continues to progress nicely despite just being a rookie. And with a strong DMR squad, Coach JJ Clark deserves some kudos for another really nice season.

Maurica Powell (Washington)

Admittedly, the underwhelming results that we saw at the national meet are only compounded by similar results from last year. Even so, no one can deny that the Huskies were one of the most feared groups of middle distance runners in the NCAA this winter. Carley Thomas was one of the best women in the country during the regular season, Chloe Foerster developed into a star, Wilma Nielsen was an 800-meter All-American, Marlena Preigh was still a reliable 2:03 (800) runner, Haley Herberg ran under 15:40 for 5000 meters, Sophie O'Sullivan nearly qualified for the national meet in the mile and India Weir ran a 4:37 mile PR as well. It wasn't their best group ever, but these Washington women were still really darn good.

Dave Smith (Oklahoma State)

Coming into the 2024 indoor track season, Coach Dave Smith had his bases covered across all distances with an elite trio of Gabija Galvydyte, Billaj Jepkirui and Taylor Roe. And sure enough, the former was a 5th place All-American over 800 meters, the middle runner was the mile silver medalist who earned an elite 4:27 mile PR and the latter also earned a silver medal at the national meet to pair with her all-time 5k mark of 15:12. However, when you also add that trio with Molly Born being an incredibly consistent 5k All-American and a DMR team that earned All-American honors despite the odds being stacked against them, you get a coach who has an argument to win this award.

Will Palmer (Florida)

Admittedly, the Florida women didn't display as much distance depth as a few of these other programs did. Even so, the rise of Parker Valby as one of the greatest collegians of all-time and the stunning 4:26 mile PR from All-American Flomena Asekol doesn't just happen as a fluke. With Florida's DMR also earning bronze on the national stage, Coach Will Palmer has to be happy that he added Elise Thorner to his squad, a graduate transfer who evolved into a valuable miler.

Mitchell Baker (Georgetown)

Most of the success that we saw from the Georgetown women this winter largely came from Melissa Riggins and Chloe Scrimgeour. The former was a 5th place mile All-American while the latter was a 7th place All-American over 5000 meters and 3000 meters. With some insanely fast marks between the mile, 3k and 5k, Coach Mitchell Baker deserves some major kudos for optimally developing and peaking his two focal stars.

Nick Stenuf (Alabama)

We already knew that Hidal Olemomoi was a star-caliber long distance runner coming into this academic year. And truthfully, we figured that Doris Lemngole would end up in a similar tier. Even so, the former was able to replicate most of her grand success from last year while the latter has acclimated to the NCAA incredibly well, running 15:04 for 5000 meters and also earning double All-American honors. With Brenda Tuwei now in the mix, Coach Nick Stenuf has the chance to put together another trio of Alabama megastars.

Most Valuable Runner Award (Men)

*Must have run attached this season. Performances past 3/9 are not considered. Voters can choose to vote for the best distance runner or the most valuable distance runner this season.

Nominees: Nico Young (Northern Arizona), Parker Wolfe (North Carolina), Rivaldo Marshall (Iowa), Sean Dolan (Villanova), Luke Houser (Washington), Liam Murphy (Villanova), Ky Robinson (Stanford)

Nico Young (Northern Arizona)

Two national titles, an altitude-converted 3:48 mile, an all-time 3k mark of 7:37 and the first collegiate ever to break the 13-minute barrier for 5000 meters. Need more be said?

Parker Wolfe (North Carolina)

North Carolina’s Parker Wolfe proved this season that he is one of the most versatile runners in the nation. The Tar Heel star lowered every one of his PRs over the last three months, posting marks of 3:54 (mile), 7:37 (3k) and 13:13 (5k). His elite times, paired with his fearless racing style, made him a force to be reckoned with this winter. That's why it was no surprise to see him capture double gold at the ACC Indoor Championships (mile/3k) and double silver (5k/3k) at the NCAA Indoor Championships. While he may not have won an NCAA title in Boston, he proved to be one of the most consistent and all-around talented runners in the country.

Rivaldo Marshall (Iowa)

Iowa’s Rivaldo Marshall had been showing sparks of promise all season, clocking numerous marks just above and below 1:47 (800). Entering the NCAA Indoor Championships, Marshall had experienced a slight lull after a somewhat disappointing BIG 10 Championship showing. However, the former JUCO star didn't let that deter him. Instead, he powered to victory over the last lap of the national meet, seizing the opportunity in an 800-meter race that had been left wide-open. Marshall now transitions to the outdoor track season with a wealth of confidence, having proven his ability to compete with the very best.

Sean Dolan (Villanova)

Sean Dolan left this season as Mr. Consistent. The Villanova senior put together one of the most consistent and complete seasons in the country, producing three separate 1:46 (800) clockings going into the national meet. In Boston, the Wildcat star continued to race aggressively and was rewarded with a silver medal. This season, Dolan has shown that consistency is, in fact, key.

Luke Houser (Washington)

Winning back-to-back mile national titles is no easy feat, but Luke Houser seemingly did it with ease. With 800 meters remaining, Houser implemented the same tactical finesse that won him his first title, and with each increase in pace, he shook off a new challenger. Not only did the Husky win another national title, but he also paired it with an exceptionally consistent season, lowering his PRs to 3:51 (mile) and 7:40 (3k) this winter.

Liam Murphy (Villanova)

Liam Murphy is another name who has showcased impeccable range. After this season, the Wildcat ace now owns PRs of 3:53 (mile), 7:42 (3k), and 13:21 (5k). Not only that, but his tactical know-how has enabled him to excel at the championship level as evidenced by his 4th place finish over 3000 meters at the NCAA Indoor Championships. Let's not forget, he also ran 3:53 in the mile twice this winter, a display of fantastic consistency.

Ky Robinson (Stanford)

Ky Robinson’s resume heading into the NCAA Championships was something to marvel at as the Aussie has recorded marks of 7:36 (3k) and 13:06 (5k), each of which finds himself on the all-time list regardless of track size. In Boston, the Stanford ace raced with authority, earning 3rd and 5th place finishes for the 5000 meters and the 3000 meters, respectively. While we anticipated him being slightly closer to the front in both, it was still an exceptional season for one of the NCAA’s biggest and best superstars.

Most Valuable Runner Award (Women)

**Must have run attached this season. Performances past 3/9 are not considered. Voters can choose to vote for the best distance runner or the most valuable distance runner this season.

Nominees: Parker Valby (Florida), Maia Ramsden (Harvard), Juliette Whittaker (Stanford), Michaela Rose (LSU), Olivia Markezich (Notre Dame), Billah Jepkirui (Oklahoma State), Kimberley May (Providence), Doris Lemngole (Alabama)

Parker Valby (Florida)

Florida’s Parker Valby might not race all that often, but the few times that she does, she makes it count. Yes, she easily won the 3k and 5k titles at the NCAA Indoor Championships, but it’s really the times she threw down that need praise. The Gator star became the first woman in NCAA history to go sub-15:00 (5k), breaking the barrier twice en route to her 14:52 PR. She also landed in the record book with her NCAA #3 all-time 3k mark of 8:41, a clear eight-second PR for the Gator. Valby is the best of the best right now and makes it look easy to run those times.

Maia Ramsden (Harvard)

Maia Ramsden is one of the most versatile athletes in the NCAA right now between her 4:24 mile speed and 8:46 (3k) strength. The Harvard junior’s season was highlighted by running the NCAA #2 all-time mile performance, recording a 4:06 mark for 1500 meters at the World Indoor Championships and winning her the NCAA mile title, backing up her 2023 outdoor national meet 1500-meter win. Ramsden has now proven multiple times that you don’t want her around in a kicker’s race because she’s always going to come out on top.

Juliette Whittaker (Stanford)

Best Freshman Award (Women)

Most Improved Award (Men)

Most Improved Award (Women)

Best Performance Award (Men)

Best Performance Award (Women)

Best Distance Coach Award (Men's Teams)

Best Distance Coach Award (Women's Teams)

Most Valuable Runner Award (Men)

Most Valuable Runner Award (Women)

FINAL VOTES

Best Freshman Award

Overall Winner: Habtom Samuel (New Mexico)

Overall Winner: Doris Lemngole (Alabama)

Most Improved Award

Overall Winner: Abel Teffra (Georgetown)

Overall Winner: Sanu Jallow (Arkansas)

Best Performance Award

Overall Winner: Nico Young Runs NCAA 5k Record of 12:57 at Boston U.

Overall Winner: Parker Valby Runs 14:52 (5k) to Break Own Record & Win NCAA Title

Best Distance Coach Award

Overall Winner: Mike Smith (Northern Arizona)

Overall Winner: Diljeet Taylor (BYU)

Most Valuable Runner Award

Overall Winner: Nico Young (Northern Arizona)

Overall Winner: Parker Valby (Florida)