The United States Naval Academy (USNA) has a rich history of track and field excellence, dating back to its founding in 1845. The academy’s track and field program has produced numerous Olympic medalists, national champions, and world-renowned athletes.
History of USNA Track and Field
The USNA track and field program began in 1845 as a way to promote physical fitness and discipline among midshipmen. The first intercollegiate track meet was held in 1864 against St. John’s College. Since then, the program has grown to become one of the most successful in the nation.
Facilities and Coaching Staff
The USNA track and field program has access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Ricketts Hall Track and Field Complex. The complex includes a 400-meter track, a 200-meter straightaway, a javelin runway, a shot put and discus area, and a pole vault and high jump pit.
The program is led by a highly experienced and dedicated coaching staff. The head coach is Michael Hegarty, who has been at the helm of the program since 2019. Hegarty is a former Olympic medalist and NCAA champion.
Student-Athletes
The USNA track and field program attracts some of the nation’s top student-athletes. Every year, the program receives numerous letters of interest from high school athletes across the country. The program is highly selective, and only a small number of athletes are admitted each year.
The student-athletes in the USNA track and field program are required to maintain a high level of academic and athletic performance. They are held to the same standards as all other midshipmen and must meet all the requirements of the Naval Academy.
Accomplishments and Awards
The USNA track and field program has a long and storied history of success. The program has won numerous conference championships, national championships, and Olympic medals.
Olympic Medals
- Gold: 1
- Silver: 1
- Bronze: 2
National Championships
- NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championship: 1
- NCAA Division I Cross Country Championship: 1
- IC4A Outdoor Track and Field Championship: 12
- Heptagonal Games: 14
Conference Championships
- Patriot League Outdoor Track and Field Championship: 14
- Patriot League Indoor Track and Field Championship: 16
Notable Alumni
The USNA track and field program has produced numerous notable alumni, who have gone on to successful careers in the military, the athletic community, and the business world.
- Jackie Joyner-Kersee: Olympic gold medalist and three-time world champion
- Edwin Moses: Olympic gold medalist and world record holder
- Butch Reynolds: Olympic medalist and world champion
- Greg Foster: Olympic medalist and world champion
- Milt Campbell: Olympic medalist and two-time world champion
- Andre Cason: Olympic medalist and three-time world champion
- Earl Bell: Olympic medalist and world champion
- Meliz Redig: Olympic medalist and world champion
- Jason Richardson: Olympic medalist and world champion
- Allyson Felix: Olympic gold medalist and seven-time world champion
Tips and Tricks for Success
The USNA track and field program offers several tips and tricks for athletes who are looking to improve their performance.
- Set realistic goals: Don’t try to do too much too soon. Start with small, achievable goals and work your way up.
- Work hard: There is no substitute for hard work. Be consistent with your training and push yourself to your limits.
- Be patient: Success does not come overnight. It takes time and effort to achieve your goals.
- Stay positive: Believe in yourself and your ability to succeed. Don’t let setbacks get you down.
- Get help from others: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your coaches, teammates, and training partners.
- Take care of your body: Eat healthy, get enough sleep, and stay hydrated. Your body is your most important asset.
FAQs
What are the admission requirements for the USNA track and field program?
The admission requirements for the USNA track and field program are the same as the admission requirements for the Naval Academy. Applicants must be between the ages of 17 and 23 and must meet the following academic and physical standards:
- High school GPA of 3.5 or higher
- SAT score of 1200 or ACT score of 28
- Navy Physical Readiness Test (PRT) score of 240 or higher
What is the cost of attending the USNA?
The cost of attending the USNA is free for midshipmen who are commissioned into the Navy or Marine Corps. For midshipmen who are not commissioned, the cost of attendance is approximately $45,000 per year.
What are the benefits of attending the USNA?
The benefits of attending the USNA include:
- A world-class education
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities
- The opportunity to compete against the best athletes in the country
- The chance to serve your country as a commissioned officer in the Navy or Marine Corps
Conclusion
The United States Naval Academy track and field program is one of the most successful and storied programs in the nation. The program has produced numerous Olympic medalists, national champions, and world-renowned athletes. The program is committed to providing its student-athletes with the best possible experience, both academically and athletically.