2025-26 NSIC Men's Indoor Track & Field Preseason Coaches' Poll

12/4/2025 10:00:00 AM

MINNESOTA STATE SELECTED IN NSIC MEN'S INDOOR PRESEASON COACHES' POLL

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BURNSVILLE, Minn. - The 14-time defending NSIC Champions of Minnesota State University, Mankato were picked to win the NSIC in the preseason men's indoor track & field coaches' poll. The Mavericks received all 11 first place votes (coaches cannot vote for own team) and tallied 121 points, ranking them ahead of the University of Mary, which was second with 106 points . Augustana was third with 101 points and the other first place vote.

MSU Moorhead's Jared Gregoire (track) and Minnesota State's Sheldon McNicholas (field) were selected as the preseason athletes of the year. 

The 2025-26 NSIC Indoor Track & Field season gets underway this weekend with the regular season culminating on Friday-Saturday, February 27-28  at the NSIC Championship held at Myers Field House in Mankato, Minnesota; hosted by Minnesota State University, Mankato.  The entire NSIC Indoor Track & Field Championship will air live on the NSIC Network; a day pass can be purchased for $10, while full access to both days of competition is available for $15.00. 

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Jared Gregoire (Distance, R-Jr., Buffalo, Minn. / Buffalo HS) - MSU Moorhead
  • Did not compete in the past two indoor seasons
  • Was named NSIC Indoor Track & Field Newcomer of the Year in 2022-23
  • Won the 1000m at the 2022-23 championship and was part of the winning DMR that season
  • First Team All-America in the 1500m after a third place finish at the 2023 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships with a time of 3:54.20
  • 2025 NSIC Cross Country champion after a runner up finish in 2023
Jared has proven himself as one of the top middle-distance runners in the country, and it’s been exciting to see him return to form after last year’s setback. He’s a fierce competitor who knows how to win at a championship level. Coming off his NSIC cross country title, Jared is carrying great momentum into the indoor season, and we’re excited to see what he accomplishes this year.
Head Coach Ryan Milner
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Sheldon McNicholas (Jumps, So., North Chesterfield, Va. / Monacan HS) - Minnesota State
  • NSIC Champion in Triple Jump with mark of 15.05m at 2024 NSIC Indoor Championships 
  • Named USTFCCCA All-Region in Triple Jump
  • Seventh place in triple jump at 2024 NCAA Division II Indoor Championships, First Team All-America
  • Won NSIC Outdoor triple jump and placed 18th at NCAA DII Outdoor Championships 
Sheldon was an instant impact last season as he took down the indoor triple jump title at the NSIC championships, going on to capture All-American honors at the NCAA championships with a 7th place finish. We look forward to another strong campaign this season.
Head Coach Mike Turgeon

NSIC TEAM ATHLETES TO WATCH & COACHES QUOTES

AUGUSTANA UNIVERSITY - 3rd

Despite their youth, we have a talented men's team and I look forward to seeing what they can accomplish this indoor season. Both returners and newcomers have shown promising flashes and I’m excited to see them continue developing consistency and gaining experience at this level.
Head Coach Scott Tanis
Tyson has shown steady progress throughout his time at Augustana and is poised for a strong indoor season. He’s already gained valuable experience in his career, earning First Team All-NSIC honors on multiple occasions. I’m excited to see him draw on that experience to benefit both himself and the team.
Head Coach Scott Tanis

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, ST. PAUL - t-7th

What really excites me about this upcoming indoor season is the potential I see in this group — both from our returning athletes and the new faces joining the program. There’s a great mix of experience and fresh energy, and I think that combination can lead to breakthrough performances. I’m also excited to see the team come together in competition — the camaraderie, the competitiveness, and the pride they take in representing this program are tremendous. It’s an exciting time to be part of this team!
Head Coach Sam Kettenhofen
Del had an excellent season last year, and he’s come back even more hungry for success. His work ethic and focus are at a very high level right now. He’s stronger, more confident, and ready to once again contend for a conference title while eyeing better marks for the national stage.
Head Coach Sam Kettenhofen
Dan has put in a lot of great technical work in the ring this fall. He’s been consistent in training, and you can really see his effort and determination translating to success in his throws. His continued attitude and effort have us all excited for the upcoming season and his performances in both the shot and weight.
Head Coach Sam Kettenhofen

UNIVERSITY OF JAMESTOWN - 12th

We are excited to make our transition into the NCAA & into the NSIC Conference in this upcoming Track & Field season. We are young & still laying a foundation of culture & training. That said, we are getting to the point where we're starting to develop some depth across event groups & are starting to see ourselves as a serious Track & Field program. We're just looking to go out & get a taste for NCAA & NSIC competition in our first season!
Head Coach Jarvis Jelen
Clark has substantially developed during his time in our program, leading to some big breakthroughs in fitness & performance this past spring. He is someone who is very disciplined & who trains at a high level, but who also matches his fitness with a consistent racing ability. After redshirting this fall XC season, he is ready to have a big impact on the track for us this season!
Head Coach Jarvis Jelen
From the moment Ashton arrived on campus he has done everything he can to become a better athlete. His positive attitude & energy, along with his high level of discipline & focus, has led to consistent improvement & development to a high level. I expect him to make another jump in performance this year & to put himself in a position to challenge the best in the NSIC in the Long Jump, which is his primary event.
Head Coach Jarvis Jelen

UNIVERSITY OF MARY - 2nd

Our Team ended the year on a high note. We look forward to having some athletes back who weren't 100% last year, and our returners appear to be in strong positions to improve on their performances from last year. With notable newcomers, we think it will be a good mix to have a strong team during the season.
Head Coach Cale Korbelik
Xavier had a breakout season with drastic improvements. His strength is his ability to train at a high level and finish strong in races. We look forward to seeing what he can do this year to lead the sprints and relays.
Head Coach Cale Korbelik
Kenny was the top freshman in the multi for the conference and national in the heptathlon indoor. He battled injuries in outdoor but has recovered and looks great in his fall training as he prepares to go for the win at conference and get a spot at nationals indoor. Kenny had a strong summer season competing for the Bahamas in the Decathlon, taking Bronze in the NACAC Track and Field meet.
Head Coach Cale Korbelik

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA DULUTH - t-7th

The 2025–26 UMD Men’s Track and Field team is in a great position heading into the season. We’re returning key point contributors across all event groups — especially in the sprints, jumps, and throws — which gives us a strong foundation of experience and leadership. Alongside that core group, we have a talented group of young athletes who are eager to step up and make their mark. It’s an exciting mix of proven performers and emerging talent, and we’re looking forward to seeing how that depth and energy come together throughout the year
Head Coach Karly Brautigam
Brady established himself at one of the best sprinters in the NSIC last year, scoring in the 100M & 200M at the NSIC outdoor championships, while also a major contributor to both relays. Brady's sprint range will be high impact from 60M-400M during the 2026 indoor season. Brady is also the school record holder in the 100M, 200M, and indoor/outdoor 4x400M relays for the Bulldogs
Head Coach Karly Brautigam
Jackson will come into his senior season as a 7x conference scorer in the throwing events for the Bulldogs. Jackson, having scored in both the shot put and weight throw during his career, will have the opportunity to be a high impact field events contributor for the Bulldogs this indoor season.
Head Coach Karly Brautigam

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, MANKATO - 1st

With many impactful returners and some high end new talent, the Maverick men will bring one of their most complete teams to the indoor track this year. Our goal remains to defend our team title at the NSIC Championship and battle with some of the nation's best at the NCAA Championships.
Head Coach Mike Turgeon
Paul had a strong sophomore season winning the indoor 800m conference championships and finishing 2nd at the outdoor NSIC championships. We are excited to see what he can accomplish this season across all his events, but specifically in the 800m as he works to defend his title.
Head Coach Mike Turgeon
Sheldon was an instant impact last season as he took down the indoor triple jump title at the NSIC championships, going on to capture All-American honors at the NCAA championships with a 7th place finish. We look forward to another strong campaign this season.
Head Coach Mike Turgeon

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY MOORHEAD - 4th

What excites me most about this year’s team is the blend of experienced returners and talented newcomers who are ready to contribute right away. We have strong event groups across the board and a collective mindset that’s centered on growth, consistency, and competing at a championship level. The energy and commitment this group has shown early on gives me a lot of confidence in what we can accomplish this season.
Head Coach Ryan Milner
Jared has proven himself as one of the top middle-distance runners in the country, and it’s been exciting to see him return to form after last year’s setback. He’s a fierce competitor who knows how to win at a championship level. Coming off his NSIC cross country title, Jared is carrying great momentum into the indoor season, and we’re excited to see what he accomplishes this year.
Head Coach Ryan Milner
Jaiden had an outstanding year, winning NSIC titles both indoors and outdoors while establishing himself among the top high jumpers in Division II. His ability to perform consistently at a high level and compete with composure on big stages sets him apart. Jaiden continues to push the standard within our program, and his work ethic and competitive drive make him a true leader for our jumps group heading into this season.
Head Coach Ryan Milner

MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY - 11th

The men's team has a nice balance of experience and exciting new talent, it will be fun to watch this team progress throughout the season and if we can reach the potential of the talent on this team, it will be a very interesting to see what we can accomplish.
Head Coach Jordan Aus
Peyton is coming off a very strong outdoor and cross country season. He is positioning himself to have an excellent senior track season and should be in a position to be very competitive in the middle distance events at the conference level.
Head Coach Jordan Aus
Ethan is our top male returner in the throws and should be a leader for that group. Ethan will be a leader for us in the throws and he will look to compete for a place in the finals of the shot put this indoor season at the conference level.
Head Coach Jordan Aus

NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY - 5th

The men's squad is coming off a great outdoor season where they placed 3rd at the NSIC Championships. We return many of our veteran members of our squad. We have added some great depth in many areas with our freshman class and should be a well-balanced team.
Head Coach Lynne Dingman
Chris is entering his final season for the Wolves. He had an amazing season last year both indoor/outdoor and we expect him to be a top contender in the short sprints. He has put in a tremendous amount of work in the off season and is hungry to compete this indoor season.
Head Coach Lynne Dingman
Eli is coming off a great outdoor season where he placed All-Conference in the Pole Vault. He will be a threat in several events for the Wolves, focusing on the pole vault and multi's. He has had a great fall season, and we are excited to see how many points he can score this indoor season.
Head Coach Lynne Dingman

UNIVERSITY OF SIOUX FALLS - 6th

The Cougar men enter the season with a strong mix of proven veterans and talented newcomers, combining experience with fresh energy. This group brings versatility and depth across multiple events, positioning the team to make an impact throughout the season. With a confident mindset, our men are focused and motivated to compete at a high level all season long.
Head Coach Eric Chilson
Brandon is coming off a standout freshman campaign in which he captured the NSIC 600m title, earned conference points in the 4x400, and contributed to the school-record 4x400 relay team. His dedication throughout the offseason has been evident, as he’s continued to train with focus and purpose. Brandon’s strong leadership and commitment to excellence set the tone for his teammates and position him for an even bigger impact in the 2025–2026 season.
Head Coach Eric Chilson
Andrew returns following an impressive NSIC All-Conference showing in the shot put, where he placed third, and a strong fourth-place finish in the weight throw at the NSIC Indoor Championships. A steady and reliable competitor, Andrew continues to make consistent progress each season. His work ethic and commitment to refining his craft set the tone for those around him.
Head Coach Eric Chilson

SOUTHWEST MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY - 10th

We have a good mixture of newcomers and returners which should make for an exciting season.
Head Coach Kirk Nauman
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Dylan put together a strong freshman campaign while adjusting to the challenge that is the NSIC. He put together a number of nice performances as the season progressed. Dylan is looking forward to another season of progress as indoor nears.
Head Coach Kirk Nauman
Peda enters his junior season looking to take the next step. In his first two indoor seasons at the NSIC Championships, Peda placed 8th and 7th in the triple jump. Another goal for Peda is to claim the SMSU indoor triple jump record.
Head Coach Kirk Nauman

WAYNE STATE COLLEGE - 9th

Our team has several new athletes who should be able to contribute immediately to helping the team be more competitive. We have the benefit also of having our new indoor facility to use during the whole indoor season, which we didn't have last year. The NSIC is one of the best conferences in NCAA DII, which our athletes know. I am looking forward to seeing what our combination of returners, plus the new athletes on our team can do this year.
Head Coach Marlon Brink
Mitchell had an amazing freshman year. He lowered his personal bests significantly and competed well in the NSIC. He is making good progress to being even better this season and now combined with his experience last year, will make him even more valuable to our team!
Head Coach Marlon Brink
Cain is a very explosive athlete with a couple of years of great experience at Iowa Western CC, before coming to WSC this year. He was a JUCO All-American last year and knows how to compete when the pressure is on. He will be an exciting athlete to watch on our team this year!
Head Coach Marlon Brink
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