Minneapolis, MN -- The track and field teams from North Central University (NCU) opened the 2025–2026 indoor season at the M City Classic hosted by the University of Minnesota. The Rams saw several encouraging early-season performances, highlighted by multiple personal bests and a pair of top-ten finishes from senior thrower Andre Muteba. 

Sprints:

Freshman sprinter Abi Rogers opened her collegiate career in the women's 60-meter prelims, crossing the line in 9.63 seconds.

Junior jumper Zak Ruhland stepped onto the track for the men's 60-meter prelims and clocked a 7.29 in his season opener.

Distance:

Freshman distance runner Claire Nelsen made an impressive collegiate debut in the women's mile, recording a time of 6:58.72.

Sophomore distance runner Leighton Helander delivered one of the day's strongest outcomes for NCU, placing 15th overall in the men's mile with a personal best time of 4:57.03. The Rams also saw its first mid-distance action of the season in the men's 800 meters, where sophomore Josh Hinson clocked a 2:10.67 in his indoor debut. Freshman Nathan Splinter competed alongside him, crossing the line in 2:24.45 in his first collegiate race.

Throws:

Sophomore thrower Sakaya Nimely opened her season in the women's shot put, landing a best mark of 8.82 meters.

Senior thrower Andre Muteba highlighted the day for NCU with a 7th-place finish in the men's shot put, recording a personal best throw of 10.86 meters. Muteba continued his momentum into the men's weight throw, where he set another PR with a toss of 11.70 meters. His performance marked one of the strongest all-around outings of the meet for the Rams and showcased his growth entering his senior year.

Looking Ahead:

Up next, the Rams continue their indoor season at the Ole Opener on Saturday, January 17th, hosted by St. Olaf College inside the Tostrud Center in Northfield, Minnesota.

All fans are encouraged to tune into the official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (X) pages for updates on track and field and all things NCU Athletics.