The Air Force Academy has announced the addition of 34 new athletes to its track & field and cross country teams for the Class of 2029. These newcomers will join the Falcons’ program as the cadets complete their first week of classes.
Ryan Cole, director of track & field and cross country at Air Force, expressed enthusiasm about the incoming class. “We’re very excited to have the Class of 2029 join our track & field and cross country program,” Cole said. “A few aspects that really stand out are the balance across event areas and the performance level of the newcomers. Not only can this group make an immediate impact during the upcoming season, for both men and women, but they’ll have roles that allow us to continue emphasizing being a balanced track & field program. That’s something we’ll continue to build upon and this class is a key part of that process.”
The new athletes represent various disciplines including javelin, high jump, pole vault, sprints, hurdles, mid-distance, distance running, throws, decathlon, and more. They come from multiple states across the country such as Utah, North Carolina, Texas, Arizona, Missouri, New Jersey, Washington, Iowa, Maryland, Florida, Tennessee, Rhode Island, California, Illinois, Nevada, Ohio, Mississippi, Oregon and New Mexico.
In addition to these freshmen recruits from high schools nationwide—some with prior experience at USAFA Prep School—the Falcons have added two sophomore throwers: Trenton Groff from St. Louis and Mason Hayes from Normandy Park.
The Air Force cross country team is scheduled to start its 2025 season on August 29 by hosting the AFXC Classic at Monument Valley Park in Colorado Springs. The track & field season will begin in December; details on the full schedule will be provided later.
