The NAIT Ooks indoor track team is finally here! As the new addition to NAIT Athletics, they enter the season with high expectations. Under the guidance of Head Coach Ron Barhart, the team is preparing for a challenging season that will showcase their perseverance and determination. 

Heading into the 2026 indoor track season, Coach Barnhart admits that it, "will be a challenge for runners to adapt from the fresh air, trails and outdoor weather of cross country running to the dry conditions and hard, indoor track surface," he reflects. The emphasis on environmental adaptability has been a key factor to the team's preseason approach, showcasing their determination that separates them from the rest of the competition. 

Coach Barnhart also views the season as an opportunity to carry over the success and national qualification from cross country into the indoor track program. "From its earliest reintroduction into NAIT Athletics, cross country runners have qualified for Nationals all three years," he states. Despite being an extension of the cross country season, the team has clear aspirations for the indoor track championship. "Hopefully, that tradition of strong performances will carry into the indoor season and our first ACAC Indoor Championship," adds Coach Barnhart, highlighting the team's competitive spirit. 

As the NAIT Ooks indoor track team prepares for the upcoming season, the team will have three tournaments before the ACAC championship. The first tournament is up running on Saturday, January 24th.