DICKINSON, N.D. — Dickinson State senior thrower Kori Nagel has been named the 2026 NAIA Women's Indoor Track & Field National Field Athlete of the Year by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA), the organization announced.
Nagel, a native of Center, North Dakota, capped a dominant indoor season with a standout performance at the NAIA Indoor Track & Field National Championships in Gainesville, Florida, scoring 18 points for the Blue Hawks. She claimed the national title in the weight throw and placed second in the shot put, helping lead Dickinson State's efforts on the national stage.
During the regular season, Nagel delivered one of the top performances in NAIA history in the weight throw. At the Frontier Conference Indoor Championships, she launched a throw of 19.40 meters (63 feet, 7¾ inches), ranking as the 10th-best mark in NAIA history. At the same meet, she also recorded a personal best in the shot put, winning the event with a throw of 15.40 meters (50 feet, 6¼ inches).
Dickinson State head track and field coach Shayne Wittkopp praised Nagel's impact and dedication throughout her career.
"Kori has worked hard from the first day she set foot on campus," Wittkopp said. "She's risen to the occasion every time her team has needed her. She's the definition of what it means to be a Hawk! Our staff couldn't be more proud of her. Congratulations Kori!"
Nagel's national honor adds to an already impressive season and further cements her place among the top field athletes in Dickinson State program history.
