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Augusta University Adds Indoor Track and Field Programs

Athletes training at the new indoor track facility at Augusta University.

News Summary

Augusta University is set to introduce men’s and women’s indoor track and field starting in the upcoming academic year. This marks the first new sport addition since 2013, enhancing the athletic offerings and providing more opportunities for student-athletes. Jacob Burgamy has been appointed to lead the new programs, aiming to improve competitive standards and expand event opportunities for student-athletes. This initiative reflects the university’s commitment to creating a comprehensive environment that supports both athletic and academic success.

Augusta Introduces Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track and Field for 2025–26 Academic Year

Augusta University has announced that it will introduce men’s and women’s indoor track and field starting in the 2025–26 academic year. This marks the first addition of a new sport at the university since 2013, reflecting a commitment to enhance the athletic offerings at the institution and provide more opportunities for student-athletes.

The decision to add indoor track and field aligns with a strategic investment to bolster the university’s cross country and track programs. By introducing this sport, Augusta aims to offer year-round competitive opportunities for its cross country and track student-athletes, broadening their athletic experience and development.

Leadership and Coaching

Jacob Burgamy has been appointed to lead the new indoor programs. He is well-equipped for this role, having served as the head coach for cross country and track & field since March 2023. Under his leadership, the men’s cross country team has clinched three consecutive Peach Belt Conference titles and maintained national rankings every year. Additionally, the success of the teams has been highlighted by the achievements of individual athletes, such as Jordan Robertson, who became Augusta’s first cross country All-American in the fall of 2024, and Avery Jaynes, who made history as the university’s first NCAA Track & Field All-American in the spring of 2025.

Competitive Opportunities

The introduction of indoor track and field is viewed as a pivotal advancement for Augusta’s athletic program, with the potential to raise competitive standards significantly. The Director of Athletics, Ryan Erlacher, expressed optimism regarding the immediate competitiveness of the new programs. The indoor track and field initiative is designed to expand the scope of events available to student-athletes, including various disciplines such as distance running, sprinting, jumping, and throwing.

As the university moves forward with this initiative, it also plans to enhance its infrastructure and support systems for student-athletes. This development is aimed at providing a comprehensive environment that fosters both athletic and academic success.

Background on Augusta University’s Athletic Programs

Augusta University has a rich tradition of supporting student-athletes across various sports. The addition of men’s and women’s indoor track and field is part of a broader effort to create a dynamic and competitive athletics program that can accommodate diverse talents and aspirations among student-athletes.

The university’s commitment to athletics is not just about expanding its number of sports, but rather about creating an environment where students can excel in their chosen disciplines. The establishment of these indoor track and field programs is anticipated to provide more pathways for training and competition, further professionalizing the athlete’s journey at Augusta University.

Overall, the introduction of indoor track and field signifies Augusta University’s strategic move to strengthen its athletic framework while enhancing the experience of its student-athletes. As preparations unfold for the 2025–26 academic year, both the university and its supporters look forward to the promising future of these new programs.