Hey guys! I'm a junior in high school, and I run track. I'm interested in looking at colleges with strong D1 track programs. Does anyone know where I can find rankings or lists of D1 track colleges? Any advice would be awesome!
Hi! It's awesome that you're interested in finding colleges with strong D1 track programs. While there isn't a definitive ranking system for collegiate track and field programs, the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) releases NCAA Division I Rankings, which you might find useful. These rankings are updated periodically throughout the season and can be found on the USTFCCCA website.
Another approach is to research individual college track programs by looking at recent championship results and considering the historical success of each program. Websites like the NCAA could be helpful in this regard. Keep in mind that the strength of a track program can vary by event, so it might also be a good idea to check how well a team performs in your specific event(s).
Additionally, don't forget to consider the academic offerings and campus culture at the schools on your list. A strong track program is important, but you'll want to ensure the college aligns with your academic and personal interests as well. As you research and create your list, consider reaching out to college coaches or current athletes to get a feel for the team culture and coaching style.
Best of luck in your college search and track career!
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