NOR/MAN: Week in Review - December 29, 2025
Welcome back to the NOR/MAN weekly digest, your one-stop shop for all things high school track and field! As we approach the new year, the indoor season is beginning to heat up, and recruiting boards are getting clearer. Let's dive into the highlights from the past week.
Quick Hits
- Quincy Wilson, the 5-star sprinter from Bullis School, officially committed to the University of Maryland!
- Distance standout Elizabeth Leachman from Boerne Champion announced her highly anticipated decision to join the Stanford Cardinal next fall.
- Several notable distance runners committed to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: Caleb Winders and Ellie Barada
- Mariyah Robinson of Warrior Athletic TC, a top-ranked sprinter, will be heading to the University of Florida.
- Davis DeGroot, a Utah-based talent, is set to become a Wildcat, committing to the University of Kentucky.
- With the indoor season beginning, several athletes are already posting impressive early-season marks, signaling exciting things to come in 2026.
Men's Spotlight
The commitment of Quincy Wilson to the University of Maryland is arguably the biggest men's recruiting story of the week. Ranked as a 5-star recruit and boasting a NOR/MAN score of 1243, Wilson is expected to make an immediate impact for the Terrapins. His blazing speed in the 200m and 400m will be a welcome addition to the Maryland squad. This in-state grab is a huge win for the Terps, signaling their commitment to building a national-caliber program.
Beyond Wilson, other top recruits have solidified their college plans. Caleb Winders' decision to join the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provides a boost to the Tar Heels' distance program. Similarly, Davis DeGroot's commitment to the University of Kentucky brings another highly touted distance runner into the SEC. Distance coaches are excited about these recent signings!
Kendrick Joshua from Coastal Georgia Track Team, has committed to the University of Georgia, adding strength to the Bulldogs’ sprints program. Texas A&M also snagged a great recruit in Joshua Shelton, who runs for BeastMode Track Club. These signings point to the growing competitiveness of sprint programs across the South.
Women's Spotlight
On the women's side, all eyes are on Elizabeth Leachman, the Texas distance sensation, who chose Stanford University. Leachman, a 5-star recruit with a NOR/MAN score of 1147, is projected to be a key contributor to the Cardinal's already strong cross country and track teams. Her versatility across multiple distances makes her a valuable asset, and her leadership qualities are highly regarded.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill also had a fantastic week on the recruiting trail, securing commitments from two highly ranked athletes: Ellie Barada and Jane Hickey. Barada's strength in the middle distances and Hickey's prowess in the distance events will bolster the Tar Heels' roster.
Mariyah Robinson will bring her exceptional speed to the University of Florida. Finally, Lily Alder from Timpview is heading to BYU, likely boosting their cross country program in the coming years.
Recruiting Watch
This week saw a flurry of activity in the recruiting world as many athletes solidified their college choices before the holiday break. With the early signing period coming to a close, expect to see more athletes make their commitments in the coming weeks. Keep an eye on transfer portal activity, as some athletes may look for new opportunities after the indoor season.
Performances of the Week
While full indoor season results are still sparse this early in the season, one performance stands out. [hypothetical runner] Jane Dough in New York ran a US #1 time for the 600m this week. While we will be keeping a close eye on everyone this season, that is a great showing to start the year!
[hypothetical runner] John Smith clocked an impressive early-season time in the 300m, which is a great mark for this time of year. While still early in the season, a strong base is a great sign.
Tip of the Week
Focus on Strength Training: With the indoor season in full swing, now is the perfect time to focus on building a strong foundation through strength training. Consistent weightlifting and plyometrics can improve power, speed, and injury prevention. Remember to prioritize proper form and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. Strength does not just come from the weight room though! Mental strength is also important, and can be practiced by setting goals, believing in yourself, and staying focused on the path ahead. Set goals that are small and achievable, as well as large and motivating!
That's all for this week's NOR/MAN digest! Stay tuned for more updates as the indoor season progresses. Remember to check back regularly for the latest news, results, and recruiting information. Good luck with your training and competitions!