By: Clint Neumann
BURNSVILLE, Minn. – The University of Sioux Falls Men's Track & Field team has been selected sixth in the 2025-26 NSIC Indoor Preseason Coaches' Poll, as released by the league office Thursday. The Cougars match their 2024-25 finish and return a deep roster with momentum heading into an important indoor campaign.
Minnesota State, winners of 14 straight NSIC indoor titles, was picked first with all 11 possible first-place votes. The NSIC season officially opens this weekend and culminates at the conference championship meet, February 27–28 at Myers Fieldhouse in Mankato.
Cougar Men Enter Season with Depth and Competitive Edge
Head Coach Eric Chilson leads a balanced roster blending tested returners with impactful newcomers across sprints, jumps, throws, multis, and distance. The group brings versatility and scoring potential in several key event areas, positioning the Cougars to challenge throughout the indoor season.
"The Cougar men enter the season with a strong mix of proven veterans and talented newcomers, combining experience with fresh energy," Chilson said. "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."
USF returns several conference scorers and finalists from last winter—including the sprints, throws, and mid-distance groups—while adding newcomers ready to push for championship-level contributions.
NSIC Track Athlete to Watch: Brandon Stark, Sophomore – Sprints
After a breakout freshman campaign, Brandon Stark has quickly become one of the NSIC's most dynamic young talents. The sophomore sprinter captured the 2025 NSIC Indoor 600m Championship, earned points in the 4x400 relay, and contributed to USF's school-record 4x400 relay—all in his first collegiate indoor season.
His 2025 résumé highlights his range and rapid progression:
2025 Indoor (Freshman)
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NSIC Indoor All-Conference
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15 top-ten finishes, including 3 event wins
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Competed at NSIC Indoor Championships in the 600m, 4x400, and DMR
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1:21.42 PR in the 600m (SDSU Last Chance)
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35.30 PR in the 300m (SDSU Holiday Open)
2025 Outdoor (Freshman)
"Brandon is coming off a standout freshman campaign in which he captured the NSIC 600m title. His dedication throughout the offseason has been evident," said Chilson. "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."
With elite potential in the 400m–600m range and the strength to contribute on multiple relays, Stark is poised for a major sophomore jump.
NSIC Field Athlete to Watch: Andrew Edwards, Junior – Throws
A rising force in the NSIC throws community, Andrew Edwards returns following an outstanding sophomore season that included an NSIC All-Conference finish in the shot put, a fourth-place mark in the weight throw, and several new personal bests across the indoor and outdoor seasons.
In 2025, Edwards established himself as one of the most consistent scorers in the league:
2025 Indoor (Sophomore)
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NSIC All-Conference
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17 top-ten finishes
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Competed in shot put and weight throw at NSIC Indoor Championships
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18.10m PR in the weight throw
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Recorded strong shot put improvements throughout the season
2025 Outdoor (Sophomore)
A steady technician with increasing power, Edwards continues to elevate his marks each year.
"Andrew returns following an impressive NSIC All-Conference showing in the shot put," Chilson said. "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."
Edwards heads into his junior season as a major point-scoring threat in both indoor throws and a foundational leader in USF's deep throws squad.
Looking Ahead
The Cougars open their indoor season at the Wildcat Opener on December 5, kicking off a competitive slate that includes trips to Mankato, Vermillion, Brookings, and other high-quality meets before the NSIC Championships in late February.
With legitimate scoring opportunities across sprints, mid-distance, jumps, multis, and throws, the USF men are built to contend again in 2025–26—and continue building a strong foundation for the future.
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