Kearney Captures Individual National Championship; AAC Produces 8 All-Americans

GAINESVILLE, Fla. - The Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) was well represented at the 2026 NAIA Women's Indoor Track & Field National Championship meet.

The three-day event was held on March 5-7 in Gainesville, Fla.

Ellen-Mary Kearney of Milligan repeated as the individual national champion in the 3000, winning the race in 9:45.69. Teammate Karly Wilhjelm placed eighth in the event to earn NAIA All-American honors. 

Kearney earned a second NAIA All-American accolade as she and Kaylee Coll, Aleah Soderman, and McKenzie Fitzgerald placed third in the Distance Medley Relay.

Also earning All-American honors were Heather Murphy of Montreat and Madison Kitson of Brenau. Murphy placed second in the 5000, while Kitson was sixth in the long jump.

In the team competition, Milligan finished 18th overall with 17 points, Montreat was 36th with eight points, and Brenau was 55th with three points.

For full results, click here.