News Summary
Augusta University has unveiled plans to introduce men’s and women’s indoor track and field programs, commencing in the 2025-26 academic year. This development marks the first NCAA sport added by the university since 2013 and aims to bolster the athletic experiences of student-athletes. Under the leadership of head coach Jacob Burgamy, the new programs will provide year-round competition opportunities for various track and field disciplines. This initiative underscores Augusta University’s commitment to enhancing its athletic offerings and fostering academic excellence among its student-athletes.
Augusta, Georgia – Augusta University Expands Athletics with New Indoor Track and Field Programs
Augusta University has announced the addition of men’s and women’s indoor track and field programs, set to begin competition in the 2025-26 academic year. This strategic investment aims to enhance the athletic experience and success of student-athletes, marking the first NCAA sport added by the university since 2013.
The new indoor track programs will be under the leadership of Jacob Burgamy, who currently serves as the head coach for cross country and track and field at Augusta University. Burgamy has a proven track record of leading the men’s cross country team to three consecutive Peach Belt Conference titles and attaining national rankings. The introduction of indoor track is expected to provide year-round opportunities for distance runners, sprinters, jumpers, and throwers, expanding the competitive capabilities of Augusta University athletics.
Augusta University’s commitment to athletics is also evident through its recent recognition of outstanding student-athletes. Four members of the women’s track and field team were named to the 2024-25 Peach Belt Conference Team of Academic Distinction. The recognized athletes include sophomores Maria Biondollilo and Josalyn Branch, along with juniors Swaye Mohler and Cheyenne Ryan.
Biondollilo, from Dallas, Ga., is majoring in Biology and holds a GPA of 3.95. Branch, hailing from Covington, Ga., is pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice with a perfect GPA of 4.00. Mohler, a Kinesiology major from Dallas, also achieved a commendable GPA of 3.83. Meanwhile, Ryan, from Rincon, Ga., is studying Criminal Justice and maintains a GPA of 3.52.
To be selected for the Peach Belt Conference Team of Academic Distinction, student-athletes must compete in at least half of their team’s contests, maintain a GPA of 3.50 or higher, and have completed at least one academic year with sophomore eligibility.
The decision to add indoor track and field is part of a broader initiative to strengthen cross country and track programs at Augusta University. The institution aims to improve both competitive performance and the overall experience of its student-athletes. Under Burgamy’s guidance, the athletics program has seen significant successes, including the recognition of Jordan Robertson as the program’s first cross country All-American in fall 2024, and Avery Jaynes achieving the title of Augusta’s first NCAA Track & Field All-American with a podium finish in the 10,000m event in spring 2025.
The addition of indoor track and field will not only enhance competition but also attract future talent to the Augusta Jaguars. With ongoing successes and a commitment to academic achievement, Augusta University continues to bolster its standing in collegiate athletics.
Lee, a recent graduate in cell and molecular biology, exemplifies the student-athlete success at Augusta. With a perfect 4.0 GPA, Lee received the PBC Elite 18 Award. He was an active member of the track and field team and holds the school record in javelin with a throw of 53.30 meters, achieved in 2024. His athletic accomplishments include multiple podium finishes at the PBC Track & Field Championships and recognition as All-Southeast Region by the USTFCCCA in 2024, further highlighting the excellence of Augusta University’s athletes both in academics and athletics.
The inclusion of indoor track and field marks a promising chapter for Augusta University, illustrating its commitment to fostering a vibrant, competitive, and academically enriching environment for all student-athletes.
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HERE Resources
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Augusta University Adds Indoor Track and Field Programs
Augusta University Expands Athletic Programs with Indoor Track and Field
Additional Resources
- Augusta University Announces Addition of Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track and Field
- Google Search: Augusta University Indoor Track and Field
- Men’s Track and Field Academic Excellence Recognition
- Wikipedia: Track and Field
- Ryan Lee Named PBC Scholar-Athlete of the Year
- Google News: Augusta University Athletics
