Eastern Michigan Athletics
Cross Country and Track & Field Add 17 to Programs
6/22/2026 1:00:00 PM | Men's XC, Women's XC, Men's Track & Field, Women's Track & Field
The additions include three distance runners, four sprinters, nine field athletes, and a multi-event athlete
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) – The Eastern Michigan University cross country and track and field programs announced 17 additions to the 2026-27 season.
The incoming athletes include Patricia Wanjiku, Jailen McNair, Sydney Burdine, Emma Stewart, Katie Stewart, Ramell Walley, Blake Rodgers, Kris Stephens, Mara Longenecker, Kolby Masserant, Jackson Hughes, Shiloh Bryant-Serrano, Caleb Paul, Akyus Richardson, Mae Gall, Deianna Johnson, and Peyton Trammer.
Wanjiku, Rodgers, and Longenecker join the cross country and track and field programs as distance runners, while McNair, Burdine, Johnson, and Trammer will compete in sprints. The Stewart sisters, Walley, Stephens, Hughes, Bryant-Serrano, Paul, Richardson and Gall will compete in field events, and Masserant will compete as a multi-event athlete for the track and field program.
The 17 additions to the squad bring the total of new athletes for the 2026-27 season to 27, with Kaelyn Becken, Kaiya Fujioka, Ella Luker, Laura Van Nes, Maiya Corrigan, Riley Williams, Mercy Chepkemoi, Emma Kanka, Sean Cinzori, Cameron Gramzow, and Mohammed Mohammed also joining the programs.
Patricia Wanjiku
Event: Distance
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU cross country and track & field programs as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attends Kiptulos Secondary School… Competed in the 5,000m ad 1,500m events… Was captain for two years and earned three letters… Also competed in netball.
PERSONAL: Full name: Patricia Wanjiku Wambui… Daughter of Dennis Nyaga Kariuki and Cecily Wawira … Has a sister, Risper Ng'endo, and two brothers, Mark Njuki and Edwin Njogu… A native of Iten, Elgeiyo Marakwet, Kenya… Major: Sports management.
Blake Rodgers
Event: Distance
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU cross country and track & field programs as an incoming transfer from Wright State University.
WSU: 2025-26: Attended Wright State University for two years… XC: Competed in six meets… earned a top-10 finish in the 8k at the 2025 Rumble in the Fort, Sept. 20… Ran a personal best 5k at the Baumer XC Classic in 15:16.9, Sept. 5… Saw a personal best time in the 8k of 24:41.3 at the Horizon League Championship, Nov. 1… Indoor: Competed in five meets… Earned a top-five finish with a personal best 5000m of 14:47.99 at the GVSU Big Meet Friday, Feb. 13… Ran a personal best 3000m in 8:39.33 at the Steemer Showcase, Jan. 31… Outdoor: Did not compete.
2024-25: XC: Competed in five meets… Named Horizon League Men's Freshman of the Week Sept. 10, after finishing sixth in the Baumer XC Classic, running the course in 15:13.2… Ran a personal best 10k time of 32:08.8 at the NCAA Great Lakes Region Cross Country Championships, Nov. 15… Indoor: Competed in four meets… Ran a personal best mile of 4:27.19 at the Steemer Showcase, Feb. 1… Outdoor: Competed in six meets… Earned a top-10 finish in the 5000m at the Otterbein Twilight, April 18… Ran a personal best 10000m of 31:01.42 at the Bison Outdoor Classic, April 12-13.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Belpre High School… Earned seven letters with the Eagles… His senior year, was third in the state in the 3200m, and earned All-Ohio, and Academic All-Ohio honors… Is a member of the distance medley relay team that holds the school record… Was the state runner-up in the 3200m in 2023… Also a two-time cross country TVC Champion.
PERSONAL: Full name: Blake Thomas Rodgers… Son of Joseph and Nicole Rodgers… Has a brother, Nolan… A native of Belpre, Ohio… Major: Psychology.
Mara Longenecker
Event: Distance
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU cross country and track & field programs as an incoming transfer from the University of Michigan.
MICHIGAN: 2025-26: Attended the University of Michigan for four years… XC: Competed in five meets… Ran a personal best 5k time of 18:44.8 at the Michigan Open, Aug. 29… Indoor: Competed in six meets… Saw a second place finish in the mile at the Silverston Invitational, Feb. 20… Earned a third place finish at the Michigan Invitational, Feb. 7, with a personal best mile time of 4:52.12… Ran a personal best 3000m time of 9:46.13 at the BU David Hemery Valentine Invitational, Feb. 13-14… Outdoor: Competed in five meets… Earned a second place finish in the 1500m with a time of 4:34.90 at the Len Paddock Open, May 8… Ran a personal best time in the 1500m of 4:27.07 at the UCF Black & Gold Challenge, March 20-21.
2024-25: XC: Competed in three meets… Ran the EMU Fall Classic 3.11 mile course in a personal-best 18:24.9, Oct. 25… Indoor: Competed in five meets… Ran a third place finish as a member of the 4x400m relay team at the Michigan Invitational, Feb. 8, where she also saw a fifth place finish in the 800m… Outdoor: Competed in four meets… Ran a personal best time of 16:59.81 in the 5000m at the Wake Forest Invitational, April 17-18… Earned a third place finish at the Len Paddock Open, May 9, with a 3000m time of 9:53.84.
2023-24: XC: Competed in two meets… Ran a personal best 6k of 21:30.3 at the Sean Earl Loyola Lakefront Invitational, Sept. 29… Indoor: Competed in seven meets… Earned a top-five finish in the 800m with a time of 2:14.85 at the Silverston Invitational, Feb. 16… Outdoor: Competed in six meets… Ran a personal best 800m of 2:10.19 at the Wake Forest Invitational, April 19.
2022-23: XC: Did not compete… Indoor: Competed in two meets… Earned a top-five finish as a member of the 4x400m relay team at the Michigan Invitational, Jan. 14… Outdoor: Did not compete.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Freeland High School, serving as captain for three years for the Falcons' distance squad… Earned all-state track & field honors four times, and all-state cross country honors twice… Her team was MITCA Champions in 2022.
PERSONAL: Full name: Mara Sharon Longenecker… Daughter of Douglas Longenecker and Robin Wilson… Has a brother, Wilson, and a sister, Hayley… A native of Freeland, Mich… Major: Exercise physiology.
Jailen McNair
Event: Sprints
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Lawrence Tech University.
LTU: 2025-26: Attended Lawrence Tech University for one year… Indoor: Competed in six meets… ran a personal best in the 60m dash at the WHAC Indoor Championships Feb. 20-21, with a time of 6.91… Earned a top-five finish in the 60m dash at the SVSU Holiday Open and Multis Dec. 5-6… Outdoor: Competed in six meets… Claimed the WHAC 100m dash title after winning the race in personal-best 10.48 at the WHAC Outdoor Championship April 30-May 1… Ran a personal best 200m in 22.06 at the Cherry Blossom Invitational April 3… Earned five top-five finishes throughout the outdoor season.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Cleveland Heights High School… Competed for the Tigers as a sprinter… Earned All-American JO, and All-OHSAA honors… Also competed for the Ohio Heat for one year.
PERSONAL: Full name: Jailen Anthony McNair… Son of Johnny McNair and Teiya Riggins… Has a sister, Savanna Riggins… A native of Cleveland, Ohio… Major: Civil engineering.
Sydney Burdine
Event: Sprints
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Southeast Missouri State University.
SEMO: 2025-26: Attended Southeast Missouri State University for three years, competing in the Ohio Valley Conference… Indoor: Competed in nine meets… Claimed the 400m title at the OVC Championship Feb. 24-25, taking the win in 54.56… Saw two other victories in the 400m, the first at the Josh Gartland Invitational, Dec. 12-13, and the second at the 2026 Redhawks Invite, Jan. 10… Earned four top-three finishes… Outdoor: Competed in six meets… Was the OVC champion in the 400m, earning the title in both indoor and outdoor seasons, after winning the race in 54.77 at the OVC Championships, May 14-16… Was also a member of the championship 4x400m relay team at the OVC Championships… Earned four top-three finishes.
2024-25: Indoor: Competed in eight meets...Finished a race 10 times in the top 10… Was a member of the 4x400m relay championship team at the OVC Indoor Championships, Feb. 25-26… Won both the 55m (7.40) and the 200m (26.34) at the 2025 Redhawks Invite, Jan. 11… Outdoor: Ran in seven meets...Notched five top 10 finishes… Was the OVC champion in the 400m, running a personal best time of 53.78 at the OVC Outdoor Championships, May 15-17, along with finishing third in the 4x100m relay, fourth in the 4x400m relay, and sixth in the 200m.
2023-24: Indoor: Ran at eight meets…Tallied 20 top ten finishes with eight being first place finishes…Began her collegiate career with three top five performances in the 60m (7.74, 5th), the 300m (39.84, 1st), and the 4x400 (3:57.09, 1st)...Posted two gold medal performances in the 4x400m and the 400m with times of 3:58.70 and 58.09 at the Redhawks Invite, Jan. 13… Finished the season with times of 25.58 (8th), 54.94 (1st), and the 3:47.62 (1st) in the 200m, 400m, and the 4x400m at the OVC Indoor Championships, Feb. 21-22… Outdoor: Ran in eight meets…Claimed Ohio Valley Conference Female Track Athlete of the Week…Raced in 27 events and finished in the top ten in 24 events with 17 being top five finishes… Ended the season with three podium finishes in the 400m (55.30) for silver, 4x100m (46.37) for silver and wore the gold in the 4x400 with a finishing time of 3:45.84 at the OVC Championship May 9-11.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Westminster Christian Academy… Earned all-state first team honors… Was a class four state champion in the 400m in 2022… Ran a personal-best 54.40 in the 400m senior year.
PERSONAL: Full name: Sydney Marie Burdine… Daughter of Willie and Kimberly Kilpatrick… Has two brothers, Jaylen and Josiah, and four sisters, Kesishon, Christina, Nia, and Carmen… A native of Belleville, Ill… Major: Individualized studies.
Deianna Johnson
Event: Sprints
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Maple Heights High School… Earned honor and merit roll honors… Earned letters for cross country, track & field, and cheerleading for the Mustangs… Was named the Maple Heights Rising Star her freshman year, followed by earning Most Valuable Runner sophomore and junior year… Was the first female state champion for her school after winning the outdoor long jump title senior year, along with earning runner up in the state for indoor triple jump.
PERSONAL: Full name: Deianna Destiny Johnson… Daughter of Amelia Johnson… Has three sisters, Brianna and Amelia Barner, and Deriona Talton… A native of Cleveland, Ohio… Major: Business administration.
Peyton Trammer
Event: Sprints
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Belleville High School… Earned two letters competing for the Tigers… Was the state champion in the 60m, and runner up in the 100m… Also played football… Competed for Track Life and earned first place at Adidas nationals, along with earning All-American Nike honors.
PERSONAL: Full name: Peyton Anthony Trammer… Son of Dwight Trammer and Heather Baber… Has a brother, Dwight Trammer, and a sister, Ashley Baber… A native of Taylor, Mich… Major: Undecided.
Katie Stewart
Event: Pole Vault and Throws
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Siena Heights University.
SHU: 2025-26: Attended Siena Heights University for one year… Indoor: Cleared a personal-best 3.57m (11-08.50) in the pole vault… Earned top-five finishes in every meet of the indoor season… Outdoor: Saw a personal best in the javelin throw with a mark of 30.09m (98-9), along with a personal-best discus throw of 34.88m (114-5)… Earned seven top-five finishes.
USMA: 2024-25: Attended the United States Military Academy for one year… Indoor: Earned two event wins and three additional top-five finishes in the pole vault… Outdoor: Competed in one meet, finishing fourth in the pole vault.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Salem High School… Holds the school and park record in the pole vault… Earned most valuable field event athlete and female athlete of the year... Was a two-time conference champion, a three-time regional champion, and finished third in the state her junior year… Also competed in dive and gymnastics, earning all-state honors for gymnastics all three years she competed and broke the school record for vault.
PERSONAL: Full name: Kathryn Elisabeth Stewart… Daughter of Sean and Jessica Stewart… Has two sisters, Emma and Sarah… A native of Canton, Mich… Major: Social work.
Emma Stewart
Event: Pole Vault
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Siena Heights University.
SHU: 2025-26: Attended Siena Heights University for two years… Indoor: NAIA indoor pole vault champion with a clearance of 4.05m (13-03.50) at the NAIA Indoor Championships… Won the pole vault title at the WHAC Indoor Championships… Also won the pole vault at the Centre Indoor Invitational and Multis, the SVSU Classic, the SVSU Holiday Open and Multis, and the SVSU Jet's Pizza Invitational with a personal best mark of 4.08m (13-04.50)…Outdoor: Placed third at the NAIA Outdoor Championships… Was the WHAC champion in the pole vault at the WHAC Outdoor Championship… Won the pole vault at the Bill Bippes Meet, and the Don Kleinow Invitational… Also earned nine top-three finishes throughout the season.
2024-25: Indoor: Earned two pole vault wins in the indoor season, the first at the Mrs. G Invitational, Feb. 7, and the second at the WHAC Indoor Championship with a mark of 3.90m (12-09.50)… Placed fourth at the NAIA Indoor Championships in the pole vault… Also secured three additional top-three finishes… Outdoor: Finished as the runner up in the pole vault at the WHAC Outdoor Championship… Earned six top-five finishes throughout the season… Placed seventh at the NAIA Outdoor Championships in the pole vault.
SAU: 2023-24: Attended Spring Arbor University for one year… Indoor: Won the pole vault at the Crossroads League Indoor Championships with a mark of 3.67m (12-00.50)… Secured two top-five finishes throughout the season… Outdoor: Won the pole vault with a personal best mark of 3.76m (12-04.00) at the Jack Shaw Invitational, April 12-13… Earned six top-five finishes in the season.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Salem High School… Earned two letters along with serving as a captain of the track & field team for two years… Competed in pole vault, long jump, high jump, and hurdle events... Was a state champion… Competed for Inversion Vault Club for five years… Also competed in gymnastics.
PERSONAL: Full name: Emma Louise Stewart… Daughter of Sean and Jessica Stewart… Has two sisters, Katie and Sarah… A native of Canton, Mich… Major: Exercise science.
Ramell Walley
Event: Pole Vault
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Atlantic Coast High School… Is the pole vault school record holder for the Stingrays with a clearance of 15-05.00… Was a Florida Relays champion… No. 2 all-time JAC men's vaulter… 2026 State Bronze medalist… Along with being a Florida High School district and regional champion his senior year… Finished third at both the Florida High School Class 4A State Championships and then Florida High School Indoor State Championships… Was a 2025 Gateway Conference champion… Competed for Jacksonville Athletic Club for a year.
PERSONAL: Full name: Ramell Walley… Son of Xzavier and Natasha Walley… Has a sister Zaria, and a brother Elijah… A native of Oshu, Japan… Major: Marketing.
Kris Stephens
Event: Jumps
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Norfolk State University
NSU: 2025-26: Attended Norfolk State University for two years, competing in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC)… Indoor: Competed in five meets… Won the triple jump at both the HBCU Showcase, Jan. 17, and the Penn State National Open, Jan. 30-31… Cleared a personal best 2.05m (6-08.75) in the high jump for a third place finish at the MEAC Indoor Championships, Feb. 22-23, along with earning second place in the triple jump… Outdoor: Competed in eight meets… Was the MEAC outdoor champion in both the long jump and triple jump with personal bests in both events, seeing a 7.51m (24-07.75) mark in the long jump, and a 15.64m (51-03.75) performance in the triple jump at the MEAC Outdoor Championships, May 14-16… Also earned second place in the high jump at the MEAC Outdoor Championships… Qualified for the NCAA East First Round in the triple jump… Won the triple jump at the NSU Invitational, April 4… Earned a total of seven top-three finishes throughout the season.
2024-25: Indoor: Competed in six meets… Earned top-five finishes in all three events at the D1 Pre-National Meet, Feb. 14-15, earning third place in both high jump and triple jump events, and fifth in the long jump… Ran a personal best 60m hurdles in 8.75 at the 2024 Liberty Kickoff, Dec. 5-6… Outdoor: Competed in six meets… Qualified for the NCAA East First Round in the triple jump… Earned a third place finish at the MEAC Outdoor Championships, May 15-17, in the triple jump… Saw five top-five finishes throughout the season.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Bethel High School… Competed as an all-around athlete for the Bruins… Was a three-time class five state champion.
PERSONAL: Full name: Kristopher Nicolloyd Stephens… Son of Kurtis Maye and Melanie Cheeks… Has two brother, Korrey, and a sister, Khloe… A native of Hampton, Va… Major: Computer science.
Jackson Hughes
Event: Jumps
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Avon High School… Earned four letters competing in high jump and long jump events for the Eagles… Was the outdoor state champion in the long jump senior year, along with earning bronze in both high jump and long jump in indoor… Holds the school records in both high jump and long jump… Was a five-time All-Ohio honoree, two-time conference champion, and two-time state champion… Earned both team and conference field most valuable performer… Also competed for Oberlin Spikes for two years, earned USTAF All-American in high jump.
PERSONAL: Full name: Jackson Daniel Hughes… Son of Daniel and Tamara Hughes… Has a brother, Nathan… A native of Avon, Ohio… Major: Chemistry.
Shiloh Bryant-Serrano
Event: Hurdles/Jumps
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Paint Branch High School… Served as captain for three years, competing in hurdles, jumps, and sprints events for the Panthers… Holds the school's long jump record and is a four-time state champion… Also competed in football and wrestling, earned first-team defensive back and all-division defensive honors.
PERSONAL: Full name: Shiloh Ismael Bryant-Serrano… Son of Manuel and Shannon Serrano… Has two brothers, Ezequiel and Mateo, and a sister, Analiese… A native of Burtonsville, Md… Major: Aviation.
Caleb Paul
Event: Jumps
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended First Baptist Academy… Earned four letters competing in the triple jump for the Lions, while serving as captain for one year… His senior year, he was the state champion and went 9-1 in the triple jump… Earned NDN All-Area First Team… Was the FHSAA Class 1A State Champion… Also played basketball.
PERSONAL: Full name: Caleb Josiah Paul… Son of John and Deborah Paul… Has three sisters, Hannah, Pricilla, and Jael, and a brother, Josh … A native of Naples, Fla… Major: Cybersecurity.
Akyus Richardson
Event: Throws
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Walsh University.
WU: 2025-26: Attended Walsh University for one year… Indoor: Competed in 11 meets… Won the shot put at the GVSU Big Meet Saturday, Feb. 14, with a personal-best throw of 17.10m (56-01.25)… Recorded a personal-best weight throw of 16.99m (55-09) at the Muskie Meet No. 3, Jan. 31… Earned four top-three finishes throughout the season… Outdoor: Competed in three meets… Won the shot put and finished second in the hammer throw at both the Star County Challenge, March 20, and the Amy Adams Memorial Invitational, March 28, where he also recorded a personal-best weight throw of 53.29m (174-10).
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Lima Shawnee… Earned four letters competing in throws events… Holds the school record for both shot put and discus throw, along with the league record for shot put… A four-time nationals qualifier, along with a two-time league champion, and a two-time indoor state champion… Also played football, and was a four-time New Balance Nationals Qualifier… Competed for the Northwest Ohio Throws Academy.
PERSONAL: Full name: Akyus Michael Richardson… Son of Dennis Richardson and Jamie Gray… A native of Lima, Ohio… Major: Business administration.
Mae Gall
Event: Throws
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from the University of Rhode Island.
URI: 2025-26: Attended the University of Rhode Island for two years… Indoor: Competed in five meets… Threw two personal bests at the NEICAAA Indoor Championships, March 6-7, with an 11.41m (37-05.25) shot put, and a 12.82m (42-0.75) weight throw… Outdoor: Competed in seven meets… Earned a second-place finish in the discus throw at the Stonehill Skyhawk Invitational, April 25, along with a third-place finish in the discus throw at the Jim Kavanagh Legacy Invitational, April 18… Recorded a personal-best hammer throw of 40.04m (131-6) at the Atlantic 10 Outdoor Championships, May 2-3.
2024-25: Indoor: Competed in two meets… Recorded a season-best weight throw of 11.13m (36-06.25) and a season-best shot put of 9.92m (32-06.50) at the Brown University Invitational, Feb. 22… Outdoor: Competed in nine meets… Earned a top-three finish in the discus throw at the Ocean State Cup 2025, April 3-4… Recorded a personal-best discus throw of 43.85m (143-10) at the UConn Northeast Challenge, April 18-19.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Niceville Senior High School… Earned two letters competing in discus for the Eagles… Threw a personal best of 129-11 her senior year at regionals… Earned second place at the regional meet, and seventh place at the state meet senior year… Also competed in volleyball, earning three letters and a top third award… Competed for both 850 Elite Volleyball Club for nine years and ECAC Track Club for four years.
PERSONAL: Full name: Madelynn Elizabeth Gall… Daughter of Jason and Crandall Gall… Has a brother, William… A native of Niceville, Fla… Major: Psychology and sociology.
Kolby Masserant
Event: Multis
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Siena Heights University.
SHU: 2025-26: Attended Siena Heights University for two years… Indoor: Saw five top-five finishes throughout the season in both the heptathlon and individual events… Earned a personal best heptathlon score of 4.864 points, with personal bests in three of the events at the SVSU Jet's Pizza Invitational Jan. 30-31… Outdoor: Won the decathlon at the 2026 Hillsdale Mid-Week Multi, scoring 6,534 points and running a personal best 100m of 11.20… Finished the season with a personal best decathlon score of 6,610 points, placing eighth at the NAIA Outdoor Championships… Also earned 13 top-five finishes throughout the season.
2024-25: Indoor: Earned an event win in the long jump at the Jack Skoog Open Jan. 17… Also earned three top-five finishes throughout the season in both the heptathlon and individual events… Outdoor: Won the decathlon at the Davenport Invitational and Multi April 11-12, with a personal best in the high jump of 1.85m (6-00.75)… Saw seven top-five finishes throughout the season… Finished in third place in the javelin throw with a personal best heave of 57.67m (189-2) at the WHAC Outdoor Championships May 7.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Whiteford Agricultural High School… Earned six letters and was a captain for two years… Holds all receiving records in football for both career and season for the Bobcats, along with holding the long jump school record… Was a state champion, along with earning all-state, all-region, and all-conference honors… Also competed in baseball, football, and basketball.
PERSONAL: Full name: Kolby Grant Masserant… Son of Kurt and Lora Masserant… Has two brothers, Luke and Stepan… A native of Ottawa Lake, Mich… Major: Exercise science.
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The incoming athletes include Patricia Wanjiku, Jailen McNair, Sydney Burdine, Emma Stewart, Katie Stewart, Ramell Walley, Blake Rodgers, Kris Stephens, Mara Longenecker, Kolby Masserant, Jackson Hughes, Shiloh Bryant-Serrano, Caleb Paul, Akyus Richardson, Mae Gall, Deianna Johnson, and Peyton Trammer.
Wanjiku, Rodgers, and Longenecker join the cross country and track and field programs as distance runners, while McNair, Burdine, Johnson, and Trammer will compete in sprints. The Stewart sisters, Walley, Stephens, Hughes, Bryant-Serrano, Paul, Richardson and Gall will compete in field events, and Masserant will compete as a multi-event athlete for the track and field program.
The 17 additions to the squad bring the total of new athletes for the 2026-27 season to 27, with Kaelyn Becken, Kaiya Fujioka, Ella Luker, Laura Van Nes, Maiya Corrigan, Riley Williams, Mercy Chepkemoi, Emma Kanka, Sean Cinzori, Cameron Gramzow, and Mohammed Mohammed also joining the programs.
Patricia Wanjiku
Event: Distance
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU cross country and track & field programs as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attends Kiptulos Secondary School… Competed in the 5,000m ad 1,500m events… Was captain for two years and earned three letters… Also competed in netball.
PERSONAL: Full name: Patricia Wanjiku Wambui… Daughter of Dennis Nyaga Kariuki and Cecily Wawira … Has a sister, Risper Ng'endo, and two brothers, Mark Njuki and Edwin Njogu… A native of Iten, Elgeiyo Marakwet, Kenya… Major: Sports management.
Blake Rodgers
Event: Distance
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU cross country and track & field programs as an incoming transfer from Wright State University.
WSU: 2025-26: Attended Wright State University for two years… XC: Competed in six meets… earned a top-10 finish in the 8k at the 2025 Rumble in the Fort, Sept. 20… Ran a personal best 5k at the Baumer XC Classic in 15:16.9, Sept. 5… Saw a personal best time in the 8k of 24:41.3 at the Horizon League Championship, Nov. 1… Indoor: Competed in five meets… Earned a top-five finish with a personal best 5000m of 14:47.99 at the GVSU Big Meet Friday, Feb. 13… Ran a personal best 3000m in 8:39.33 at the Steemer Showcase, Jan. 31… Outdoor: Did not compete.
2024-25: XC: Competed in five meets… Named Horizon League Men's Freshman of the Week Sept. 10, after finishing sixth in the Baumer XC Classic, running the course in 15:13.2… Ran a personal best 10k time of 32:08.8 at the NCAA Great Lakes Region Cross Country Championships, Nov. 15… Indoor: Competed in four meets… Ran a personal best mile of 4:27.19 at the Steemer Showcase, Feb. 1… Outdoor: Competed in six meets… Earned a top-10 finish in the 5000m at the Otterbein Twilight, April 18… Ran a personal best 10000m of 31:01.42 at the Bison Outdoor Classic, April 12-13.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Belpre High School… Earned seven letters with the Eagles… His senior year, was third in the state in the 3200m, and earned All-Ohio, and Academic All-Ohio honors… Is a member of the distance medley relay team that holds the school record… Was the state runner-up in the 3200m in 2023… Also a two-time cross country TVC Champion.
PERSONAL: Full name: Blake Thomas Rodgers… Son of Joseph and Nicole Rodgers… Has a brother, Nolan… A native of Belpre, Ohio… Major: Psychology.
Mara Longenecker
Event: Distance
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU cross country and track & field programs as an incoming transfer from the University of Michigan.
MICHIGAN: 2025-26: Attended the University of Michigan for four years… XC: Competed in five meets… Ran a personal best 5k time of 18:44.8 at the Michigan Open, Aug. 29… Indoor: Competed in six meets… Saw a second place finish in the mile at the Silverston Invitational, Feb. 20… Earned a third place finish at the Michigan Invitational, Feb. 7, with a personal best mile time of 4:52.12… Ran a personal best 3000m time of 9:46.13 at the BU David Hemery Valentine Invitational, Feb. 13-14… Outdoor: Competed in five meets… Earned a second place finish in the 1500m with a time of 4:34.90 at the Len Paddock Open, May 8… Ran a personal best time in the 1500m of 4:27.07 at the UCF Black & Gold Challenge, March 20-21.
2024-25: XC: Competed in three meets… Ran the EMU Fall Classic 3.11 mile course in a personal-best 18:24.9, Oct. 25… Indoor: Competed in five meets… Ran a third place finish as a member of the 4x400m relay team at the Michigan Invitational, Feb. 8, where she also saw a fifth place finish in the 800m… Outdoor: Competed in four meets… Ran a personal best time of 16:59.81 in the 5000m at the Wake Forest Invitational, April 17-18… Earned a third place finish at the Len Paddock Open, May 9, with a 3000m time of 9:53.84.
2023-24: XC: Competed in two meets… Ran a personal best 6k of 21:30.3 at the Sean Earl Loyola Lakefront Invitational, Sept. 29… Indoor: Competed in seven meets… Earned a top-five finish in the 800m with a time of 2:14.85 at the Silverston Invitational, Feb. 16… Outdoor: Competed in six meets… Ran a personal best 800m of 2:10.19 at the Wake Forest Invitational, April 19.
2022-23: XC: Did not compete… Indoor: Competed in two meets… Earned a top-five finish as a member of the 4x400m relay team at the Michigan Invitational, Jan. 14… Outdoor: Did not compete.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Freeland High School, serving as captain for three years for the Falcons' distance squad… Earned all-state track & field honors four times, and all-state cross country honors twice… Her team was MITCA Champions in 2022.
PERSONAL: Full name: Mara Sharon Longenecker… Daughter of Douglas Longenecker and Robin Wilson… Has a brother, Wilson, and a sister, Hayley… A native of Freeland, Mich… Major: Exercise physiology.
Jailen McNair
Event: Sprints
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Lawrence Tech University.
LTU: 2025-26: Attended Lawrence Tech University for one year… Indoor: Competed in six meets… ran a personal best in the 60m dash at the WHAC Indoor Championships Feb. 20-21, with a time of 6.91… Earned a top-five finish in the 60m dash at the SVSU Holiday Open and Multis Dec. 5-6… Outdoor: Competed in six meets… Claimed the WHAC 100m dash title after winning the race in personal-best 10.48 at the WHAC Outdoor Championship April 30-May 1… Ran a personal best 200m in 22.06 at the Cherry Blossom Invitational April 3… Earned five top-five finishes throughout the outdoor season.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Cleveland Heights High School… Competed for the Tigers as a sprinter… Earned All-American JO, and All-OHSAA honors… Also competed for the Ohio Heat for one year.
PERSONAL: Full name: Jailen Anthony McNair… Son of Johnny McNair and Teiya Riggins… Has a sister, Savanna Riggins… A native of Cleveland, Ohio… Major: Civil engineering.
Sydney Burdine
Event: Sprints
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Southeast Missouri State University.
SEMO: 2025-26: Attended Southeast Missouri State University for three years, competing in the Ohio Valley Conference… Indoor: Competed in nine meets… Claimed the 400m title at the OVC Championship Feb. 24-25, taking the win in 54.56… Saw two other victories in the 400m, the first at the Josh Gartland Invitational, Dec. 12-13, and the second at the 2026 Redhawks Invite, Jan. 10… Earned four top-three finishes… Outdoor: Competed in six meets… Was the OVC champion in the 400m, earning the title in both indoor and outdoor seasons, after winning the race in 54.77 at the OVC Championships, May 14-16… Was also a member of the championship 4x400m relay team at the OVC Championships… Earned four top-three finishes.
2024-25: Indoor: Competed in eight meets...Finished a race 10 times in the top 10… Was a member of the 4x400m relay championship team at the OVC Indoor Championships, Feb. 25-26… Won both the 55m (7.40) and the 200m (26.34) at the 2025 Redhawks Invite, Jan. 11… Outdoor: Ran in seven meets...Notched five top 10 finishes… Was the OVC champion in the 400m, running a personal best time of 53.78 at the OVC Outdoor Championships, May 15-17, along with finishing third in the 4x100m relay, fourth in the 4x400m relay, and sixth in the 200m.
2023-24: Indoor: Ran at eight meets…Tallied 20 top ten finishes with eight being first place finishes…Began her collegiate career with three top five performances in the 60m (7.74, 5th), the 300m (39.84, 1st), and the 4x400 (3:57.09, 1st)...Posted two gold medal performances in the 4x400m and the 400m with times of 3:58.70 and 58.09 at the Redhawks Invite, Jan. 13… Finished the season with times of 25.58 (8th), 54.94 (1st), and the 3:47.62 (1st) in the 200m, 400m, and the 4x400m at the OVC Indoor Championships, Feb. 21-22… Outdoor: Ran in eight meets…Claimed Ohio Valley Conference Female Track Athlete of the Week…Raced in 27 events and finished in the top ten in 24 events with 17 being top five finishes… Ended the season with three podium finishes in the 400m (55.30) for silver, 4x100m (46.37) for silver and wore the gold in the 4x400 with a finishing time of 3:45.84 at the OVC Championship May 9-11.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Westminster Christian Academy… Earned all-state first team honors… Was a class four state champion in the 400m in 2022… Ran a personal-best 54.40 in the 400m senior year.
PERSONAL: Full name: Sydney Marie Burdine… Daughter of Willie and Kimberly Kilpatrick… Has two brothers, Jaylen and Josiah, and four sisters, Kesishon, Christina, Nia, and Carmen… A native of Belleville, Ill… Major: Individualized studies.
Deianna Johnson
Event: Sprints
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Maple Heights High School… Earned honor and merit roll honors… Earned letters for cross country, track & field, and cheerleading for the Mustangs… Was named the Maple Heights Rising Star her freshman year, followed by earning Most Valuable Runner sophomore and junior year… Was the first female state champion for her school after winning the outdoor long jump title senior year, along with earning runner up in the state for indoor triple jump.
PERSONAL: Full name: Deianna Destiny Johnson… Daughter of Amelia Johnson… Has three sisters, Brianna and Amelia Barner, and Deriona Talton… A native of Cleveland, Ohio… Major: Business administration.
Peyton Trammer
Event: Sprints
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Belleville High School… Earned two letters competing for the Tigers… Was the state champion in the 60m, and runner up in the 100m… Also played football… Competed for Track Life and earned first place at Adidas nationals, along with earning All-American Nike honors.
PERSONAL: Full name: Peyton Anthony Trammer… Son of Dwight Trammer and Heather Baber… Has a brother, Dwight Trammer, and a sister, Ashley Baber… A native of Taylor, Mich… Major: Undecided.
Katie Stewart
Event: Pole Vault and Throws
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Siena Heights University.
SHU: 2025-26: Attended Siena Heights University for one year… Indoor: Cleared a personal-best 3.57m (11-08.50) in the pole vault… Earned top-five finishes in every meet of the indoor season… Outdoor: Saw a personal best in the javelin throw with a mark of 30.09m (98-9), along with a personal-best discus throw of 34.88m (114-5)… Earned seven top-five finishes.
USMA: 2024-25: Attended the United States Military Academy for one year… Indoor: Earned two event wins and three additional top-five finishes in the pole vault… Outdoor: Competed in one meet, finishing fourth in the pole vault.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Salem High School… Holds the school and park record in the pole vault… Earned most valuable field event athlete and female athlete of the year... Was a two-time conference champion, a three-time regional champion, and finished third in the state her junior year… Also competed in dive and gymnastics, earning all-state honors for gymnastics all three years she competed and broke the school record for vault.
PERSONAL: Full name: Kathryn Elisabeth Stewart… Daughter of Sean and Jessica Stewart… Has two sisters, Emma and Sarah… A native of Canton, Mich… Major: Social work.
Emma Stewart
Event: Pole Vault
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Siena Heights University.
SHU: 2025-26: Attended Siena Heights University for two years… Indoor: NAIA indoor pole vault champion with a clearance of 4.05m (13-03.50) at the NAIA Indoor Championships… Won the pole vault title at the WHAC Indoor Championships… Also won the pole vault at the Centre Indoor Invitational and Multis, the SVSU Classic, the SVSU Holiday Open and Multis, and the SVSU Jet's Pizza Invitational with a personal best mark of 4.08m (13-04.50)…Outdoor: Placed third at the NAIA Outdoor Championships… Was the WHAC champion in the pole vault at the WHAC Outdoor Championship… Won the pole vault at the Bill Bippes Meet, and the Don Kleinow Invitational… Also earned nine top-three finishes throughout the season.
2024-25: Indoor: Earned two pole vault wins in the indoor season, the first at the Mrs. G Invitational, Feb. 7, and the second at the WHAC Indoor Championship with a mark of 3.90m (12-09.50)… Placed fourth at the NAIA Indoor Championships in the pole vault… Also secured three additional top-three finishes… Outdoor: Finished as the runner up in the pole vault at the WHAC Outdoor Championship… Earned six top-five finishes throughout the season… Placed seventh at the NAIA Outdoor Championships in the pole vault.
SAU: 2023-24: Attended Spring Arbor University for one year… Indoor: Won the pole vault at the Crossroads League Indoor Championships with a mark of 3.67m (12-00.50)… Secured two top-five finishes throughout the season… Outdoor: Won the pole vault with a personal best mark of 3.76m (12-04.00) at the Jack Shaw Invitational, April 12-13… Earned six top-five finishes in the season.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Salem High School… Earned two letters along with serving as a captain of the track & field team for two years… Competed in pole vault, long jump, high jump, and hurdle events... Was a state champion… Competed for Inversion Vault Club for five years… Also competed in gymnastics.
PERSONAL: Full name: Emma Louise Stewart… Daughter of Sean and Jessica Stewart… Has two sisters, Katie and Sarah… A native of Canton, Mich… Major: Exercise science.
Ramell Walley
Event: Pole Vault
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Atlantic Coast High School… Is the pole vault school record holder for the Stingrays with a clearance of 15-05.00… Was a Florida Relays champion… No. 2 all-time JAC men's vaulter… 2026 State Bronze medalist… Along with being a Florida High School district and regional champion his senior year… Finished third at both the Florida High School Class 4A State Championships and then Florida High School Indoor State Championships… Was a 2025 Gateway Conference champion… Competed for Jacksonville Athletic Club for a year.
PERSONAL: Full name: Ramell Walley… Son of Xzavier and Natasha Walley… Has a sister Zaria, and a brother Elijah… A native of Oshu, Japan… Major: Marketing.
Kris Stephens
Event: Jumps
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Norfolk State University
NSU: 2025-26: Attended Norfolk State University for two years, competing in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC)… Indoor: Competed in five meets… Won the triple jump at both the HBCU Showcase, Jan. 17, and the Penn State National Open, Jan. 30-31… Cleared a personal best 2.05m (6-08.75) in the high jump for a third place finish at the MEAC Indoor Championships, Feb. 22-23, along with earning second place in the triple jump… Outdoor: Competed in eight meets… Was the MEAC outdoor champion in both the long jump and triple jump with personal bests in both events, seeing a 7.51m (24-07.75) mark in the long jump, and a 15.64m (51-03.75) performance in the triple jump at the MEAC Outdoor Championships, May 14-16… Also earned second place in the high jump at the MEAC Outdoor Championships… Qualified for the NCAA East First Round in the triple jump… Won the triple jump at the NSU Invitational, April 4… Earned a total of seven top-three finishes throughout the season.
2024-25: Indoor: Competed in six meets… Earned top-five finishes in all three events at the D1 Pre-National Meet, Feb. 14-15, earning third place in both high jump and triple jump events, and fifth in the long jump… Ran a personal best 60m hurdles in 8.75 at the 2024 Liberty Kickoff, Dec. 5-6… Outdoor: Competed in six meets… Qualified for the NCAA East First Round in the triple jump… Earned a third place finish at the MEAC Outdoor Championships, May 15-17, in the triple jump… Saw five top-five finishes throughout the season.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Bethel High School… Competed as an all-around athlete for the Bruins… Was a three-time class five state champion.
PERSONAL: Full name: Kristopher Nicolloyd Stephens… Son of Kurtis Maye and Melanie Cheeks… Has two brother, Korrey, and a sister, Khloe… A native of Hampton, Va… Major: Computer science.
Jackson Hughes
Event: Jumps
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Avon High School… Earned four letters competing in high jump and long jump events for the Eagles… Was the outdoor state champion in the long jump senior year, along with earning bronze in both high jump and long jump in indoor… Holds the school records in both high jump and long jump… Was a five-time All-Ohio honoree, two-time conference champion, and two-time state champion… Earned both team and conference field most valuable performer… Also competed for Oberlin Spikes for two years, earned USTAF All-American in high jump.
PERSONAL: Full name: Jackson Daniel Hughes… Son of Daniel and Tamara Hughes… Has a brother, Nathan… A native of Avon, Ohio… Major: Chemistry.
Shiloh Bryant-Serrano
Event: Hurdles/Jumps
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Paint Branch High School… Served as captain for three years, competing in hurdles, jumps, and sprints events for the Panthers… Holds the school's long jump record and is a four-time state champion… Also competed in football and wrestling, earned first-team defensive back and all-division defensive honors.
PERSONAL: Full name: Shiloh Ismael Bryant-Serrano… Son of Manuel and Shannon Serrano… Has two brothers, Ezequiel and Mateo, and a sister, Analiese… A native of Burtonsville, Md… Major: Aviation.
Caleb Paul
Event: Jumps
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended First Baptist Academy… Earned four letters competing in the triple jump for the Lions, while serving as captain for one year… His senior year, he was the state champion and went 9-1 in the triple jump… Earned NDN All-Area First Team… Was the FHSAA Class 1A State Champion… Also played basketball.
PERSONAL: Full name: Caleb Josiah Paul… Son of John and Deborah Paul… Has three sisters, Hannah, Pricilla, and Jael, and a brother, Josh … A native of Naples, Fla… Major: Cybersecurity.
Akyus Richardson
Event: Throws
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Walsh University.
WU: 2025-26: Attended Walsh University for one year… Indoor: Competed in 11 meets… Won the shot put at the GVSU Big Meet Saturday, Feb. 14, with a personal-best throw of 17.10m (56-01.25)… Recorded a personal-best weight throw of 16.99m (55-09) at the Muskie Meet No. 3, Jan. 31… Earned four top-three finishes throughout the season… Outdoor: Competed in three meets… Won the shot put and finished second in the hammer throw at both the Star County Challenge, March 20, and the Amy Adams Memorial Invitational, March 28, where he also recorded a personal-best weight throw of 53.29m (174-10).
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Lima Shawnee… Earned four letters competing in throws events… Holds the school record for both shot put and discus throw, along with the league record for shot put… A four-time nationals qualifier, along with a two-time league champion, and a two-time indoor state champion… Also played football, and was a four-time New Balance Nationals Qualifier… Competed for the Northwest Ohio Throws Academy.
PERSONAL: Full name: Akyus Michael Richardson… Son of Dennis Richardson and Jamie Gray… A native of Lima, Ohio… Major: Business administration.
Mae Gall
Event: Throws
EMU: 2026-27: Joins the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from the University of Rhode Island.
URI: 2025-26: Attended the University of Rhode Island for two years… Indoor: Competed in five meets… Threw two personal bests at the NEICAAA Indoor Championships, March 6-7, with an 11.41m (37-05.25) shot put, and a 12.82m (42-0.75) weight throw… Outdoor: Competed in seven meets… Earned a second-place finish in the discus throw at the Stonehill Skyhawk Invitational, April 25, along with a third-place finish in the discus throw at the Jim Kavanagh Legacy Invitational, April 18… Recorded a personal-best hammer throw of 40.04m (131-6) at the Atlantic 10 Outdoor Championships, May 2-3.
2024-25: Indoor: Competed in two meets… Recorded a season-best weight throw of 11.13m (36-06.25) and a season-best shot put of 9.92m (32-06.50) at the Brown University Invitational, Feb. 22… Outdoor: Competed in nine meets… Earned a top-three finish in the discus throw at the Ocean State Cup 2025, April 3-4… Recorded a personal-best discus throw of 43.85m (143-10) at the UConn Northeast Challenge, April 18-19.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Niceville Senior High School… Earned two letters competing in discus for the Eagles… Threw a personal best of 129-11 her senior year at regionals… Earned second place at the regional meet, and seventh place at the state meet senior year… Also competed in volleyball, earning three letters and a top third award… Competed for both 850 Elite Volleyball Club for nine years and ECAC Track Club for four years.
PERSONAL: Full name: Madelynn Elizabeth Gall… Daughter of Jason and Crandall Gall… Has a brother, William… A native of Niceville, Fla… Major: Psychology and sociology.
Kolby Masserant
Event: Multis
EMU: 2026-27: Will join the EMU track & field program as an incoming transfer from Siena Heights University.
SHU: 2025-26: Attended Siena Heights University for two years… Indoor: Saw five top-five finishes throughout the season in both the heptathlon and individual events… Earned a personal best heptathlon score of 4.864 points, with personal bests in three of the events at the SVSU Jet's Pizza Invitational Jan. 30-31… Outdoor: Won the decathlon at the 2026 Hillsdale Mid-Week Multi, scoring 6,534 points and running a personal best 100m of 11.20… Finished the season with a personal best decathlon score of 6,610 points, placing eighth at the NAIA Outdoor Championships… Also earned 13 top-five finishes throughout the season.
2024-25: Indoor: Earned an event win in the long jump at the Jack Skoog Open Jan. 17… Also earned three top-five finishes throughout the season in both the heptathlon and individual events… Outdoor: Won the decathlon at the Davenport Invitational and Multi April 11-12, with a personal best in the high jump of 1.85m (6-00.75)… Saw seven top-five finishes throughout the season… Finished in third place in the javelin throw with a personal best heave of 57.67m (189-2) at the WHAC Outdoor Championships May 7.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Whiteford Agricultural High School… Earned six letters and was a captain for two years… Holds all receiving records in football for both career and season for the Bobcats, along with holding the long jump school record… Was a state champion, along with earning all-state, all-region, and all-conference honors… Also competed in baseball, football, and basketball.
PERSONAL: Full name: Kolby Grant Masserant… Son of Kurt and Lora Masserant… Has two brothers, Luke and Stepan… A native of Ottawa Lake, Mich… Major: Exercise science.
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Distance
/ Women's Track & FieldHurdles/Jumps
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/ Men's Track & FieldJumps
/ Men's Track & FieldSprints
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/ Women's Track & FieldDistance
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/ Women's Track & FieldMultis
/ Men's Track & FieldSprints
/ Men's Track & FieldDistance
/ Men's Track & FieldJumps
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/ Men's Track & FieldDistance
/ Men's Track & FieldJumps
/ Men's Track & FieldPole Vault
/ Women's Track & FieldPole Vault/Throws
/ Women's Track & FieldSprints
/ Men's Track & FieldHigh Jump
/ Women's Track & FieldPole Vault
/ Men's Track & FieldDistance
/ Women's Track & FieldPole Vault
/ Women's Track & FieldWednesday, June 17
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Monday, December 01