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 recruiting! As 2025 winds down, the indoor season is heating up, and the recruiting landscape is shifting. Let's dive into the biggest stories from the past week.

Quick Hits

• Elizabeth Leachman commits to Stanford, solidifying their distance powerhouse!
• Quincy Wilson, one of the nation's top sprinters, announces his commitment to the University of Maryland.
• North Carolina Tar Heels lock down two top distance recruits this week in Caleb Winders and Ellie Barada.
• Texas A&M Aggies reel in Joshua Shelton, adding serious speed to their sprints crew.
• BYU Cougars add distance depth with the commitment of Lily Alder.
• Several athletes are posting early season indoor personal bests, hinting at big things to come in 2026!

Men's Spotlight

The men's recruiting scene witnessed a major shakeup this week with several high-profile commitments. Star sprinter Quincy Wilson made headlines by committing to the University of Maryland. Wilson, ranked as a 5-star recruit with a NOR/MAN score of 1243, chose the Terps over several other Power Five programs. His blazing speed and potential to develop into a national champion make him an invaluable addition to Maryland's track program. The future is bright for the Terps!

The University of North Carolina also secured a key distance recruit in Caleb Winders. Winders, a 5-star prospect, boasts impressive personal bests in both cross country and the 3200m. He adds significant depth to the Tar Heels' distance squad and should make an immediate impact. Down south, Joshua Shelton committed to Texas A&M. Shelton's raw talent and dedication to training make him a perfect fit for the Aggies' program, known for developing top-tier sprinters. Kentucky picked up a solid commitment from Davis DeGroot, who has a strong all-around profile and the potential to excel in multiple events. Finally, the University of Georgia bolstered its sprint group with the addition of Kendrick Joshua, a standout from Coastal Georgia Track Team.

Women's Spotlight

The women's side was equally exciting, with Elizabeth Leachman's commitment to Stanford stealing the show. Leachman, a 5-star recruit with a NOR/MAN score of 1147, is considered one of the top distance runners in the nation. Her dedication and passion for the sport has made her a force to be reckoned with. Her addition will undoubtedly strengthen the Cardinal's already formidable distance program. It is clear she will be an exciting addition to Stanford's rich track and field history.

The University of North Carolina continued its recruiting hot streak by landing another top prospect in Ellie Barada. Barada, a mid-distance standout, joins Winders in Chapel Hill, further solidifying the Tar Heels' distance squad. Jane Hickey also committed to UNC, adding even more depth. Mariyah Robinson committed to the University of Florida this past week. Her dedication and skills will make her a valuable asset to the Gators’ already impressive squad. And last but not least, Lily Alder chose to stay close to home and committed to Brigham Young University, where she will join their nationally ranked program. This commitment is a major boost for the Cougars and should see Alder thrive.

Recruiting Watch

This week's recruiting buzz centers around the flurry of commitments from the Class of 2026. With the early signing period underway, many athletes are solidifying their college plans. The competition for top talent is fierce, and coaches are working tirelessly to secure their future rosters. Keep an eye on uncommitted athletes as we head into the new year – expect more announcements soon! Additionally, some athletes are considering transferring to different high schools for better training environments. This is becoming increasingly common and can significantly impact team dynamics.

Performances of the Week

• Quincy Wilson showed why he’s such a sought-after recruit by clocking an impressive 6.25 in the 55m at an indoor meet. That mark is currently US #1 and a huge early-season personal best. With this performance, Wilson is setting a high bar for the rest of the indoor season.
• Elizabeth Leachman, fresh off her Stanford commitment, ran a solo 5k time trial in 16:30, which would be the top time in the nation. This demonstrates her incredible fitness level and sets her up for a stellar indoor and outdoor season.

Tip of the Week

For Athletes: Don't underestimate the importance of rest and recovery during the competitive season. Proper sleep, nutrition, and active recovery are crucial for preventing injuries and maximizing performance. Prioritize these aspects of your training to stay healthy and reach your full potential. Overtraining can lead to burnout and setbacks, so listen to your body and adjust your training accordingly. For coaches: incorporate periodization into your training plans. Varying the intensity and volume of workouts throughout the year can help athletes avoid plateaus and peak at the right time. A well-structured periodization plan will allow athletes to develop a solid base, build strength and speed, and recover effectively.

That's all for this week's NOR/MAN digest. Stay tuned for more updates and recruiting news in the coming weeks!