BETHANY, W.Va. – The Bethany College track and field team, led by second-year head coach Jordan Johnson, is poised for another standout season in 2025-26. Johnson returns 16 letterwinners, including one national qualifier, one USTFCCCA All-Region selection, and four Academic All-PAC honorees.
Men’s Team Leaders to Watch
Sprint Standout: Caliyph McClinton
Junior sprinter, Caliyph McClinton (Pittsburgh, PA/Neighborhood Academy), returns after claiming gold in the 200-meter dash at the 2025 Outdoor PAC Championships and competing at the NCAA Division III Outdoor Championships. He aims to build on last season’s indoor runner-up finish in the 60-meter dash and third place in the 200-meter dash.
“I’m feeling really good going into the indoor season,” says McClinton. “Being able to train every day with this team and our coaches has been a blessing. Feels like we’re building something special this year.”
Additional Returning Men’s Athletes
The Bison men also return sprinters Daryes’e Fleming, Shavel Lesley, and long jumper Dave Rene, adding depth and experience across events.
Women’s Team Veterans Return Strong
Distance Leader: Mary Tracey
Junior distance runner, Mary Tracey (Clarksburg, WV/Liberty), enters the season with confidence after competing in both indoor and outdoor long-distance events and earning Academic All-PAC honors.
“I am really excited for indoor this season,” says Tracey. “I feel so much better coming into this season than last year. I’m hoping to get a few PRs.”
Experienced Women’s Sprinters and Jumpers
Returners Madi Donelson (Lanham, MD) and Cierra Toland (Wheeling, WV) will provide leadership as the Bison pursue a PAC title.
Strength in the Field Events
Bethany’s field event squad is anchored by seniors Makenna Philson (Greenville, PA) and Ohio Valley native Koda Moore (Proctor, WV). Both compete in the shot put, discus, and hammer, with Philson finishing ninth in last year’s PAC Indoor weight throw and Moore placing in the Top 20 in his events.
Additional throwers include Jalen Britton (Top 5 in PAC discus) and Amelia Ferguson (Top 20 in the weight throw), both bringing valuable experience to the team.
Coach Johnson’s Perspective
“I’m genuinely grateful for this group,” says Coach Johnson. “We’ve brought in a talented class, but what stands out most is how connected they’ve already become. Watching their growth every day has been a blessing…This team is special.”
Season Opener
The Bison begin their 2025-26 campaign on Saturday, December 6, at the Wittenberg Tiger Opener in Springfield, Ohio. Competition begins at 11 a.m.
