By: Clint Neumann
BURNSVILLE, MINN. - As the University of Sioux Falls Outdoor Track & Field season kicks off, Head Coach Eric Chilson and the Cougars are eager to showcase a talented and experienced roster. With a mix of veteran leadership and rising stars, USF is primed to make a statement at the NSIC and national levels. The women were selected 4th in the Preseason Coaches' Poll while the men were picked 6th. Tamia Horton, Benjamin Morrison, Emily Swanson, and Tyler Hiatt were recognized as USF's Athletes to Watch. For the full list of NSIC Athletes to Watch and the full coaches' poll, check out the NSIC Women's Release and the NSIC Men's Release.
Track Athletes to Watch
Women: Tamia Horton – Sprints | Jr. | Maplewood, Minn. | North High School
Horton is coming off an incredible year, setting school records in both the 60m and 100m. She placed third at the 2024 NSIC Outdoor Track & Field Championships and competed at both the 2024 NCAA Division II Outdoor and 2025 NCAA Division II Indoor Track & Field Championships. As she continues to refine her speed and technique, Tamia is poised to make an even greater impact at the conference and national levels this season.
Men: Benjamin Morrison – Distance | Sr. | Bozeman, Mont. | Manhattan High School
Morrison has already made his mark at USF, finishing as the NSIC runner-up in the 800m and contributing to a seventh-place 4x400 relay finish. His name is already on the program's top 10 list for both events. Fresh off an impressive indoor season where he placed in the 800m and DMR, Ben's dedication to training will be key as he looks to carry his momentum into the outdoor season.
Field Athletes to Watch
Women: Emily Swanson – Multi | Gr. | Odell, Neb. | Diller-Odell High School
A standout in the heptathlon, Swanson is a returning NSIC runner-up in the event and placed fourth in the high jump and seventh in the 100m hurdles last season. She has also etched her name into the USF record books in all three events. Emily's experience and leadership will be crucial as the Cougars aim for success this season, and her versatility makes her a key contributor across multiple disciplines.
Men: Tyler Hiatt – Throws | Sr. | Sioux Falls, S.D. | Sioux Falls Lincoln
Hiatt has been a pillar of the Cougars' track and field team for the past four years. A consistent contender for NSIC titles, Tyler recently dominated the indoor season, winning both the shot put and weight throw at the NSIC Championships while earning appearances at Nationals. His commitment to excellence in practice and competition ensures he will remain a major force in the conference and beyond this outdoor season.
Coach Chilson's Perspective
On the Women's Team:
"We are a veteran squad with some key newcomers, bringing with us a wealth of experience and skill. The Cougars will have versatility and depth across multiple events. This diverse group of athletes is capable of making a significant impact across all event areas. Our women are determined to make a strong statement at the championship meet."
On the Men's Team:
"We have a senior-heavy team with a diverse pool of talent spanning all different event groups. The USF men's team has been climbing the conference rankings over the course of four years. With the addition of some talented newcomers, we will make for a well-rounded team. We're excited to see what our men are capable of this upcoming outdoor season."
With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the Cougars are ready to take on the outdoor season with determination and grit. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting campaign for USF Track & Field!
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