May 19, 2026

HELENA, Mont. – The Frontier Conference, in partnership with the Montana Army National Guard, is proud to announce Nathan Mathern of Bismarck State (N.D.) College as the recipient of the Grit Award for Men’s Track & Field.

The Grit Award recognizes student-athletes who demonstrate extraordinary mental toughness, perseverance, and integrity both on and off the field, embodying the National Guard’s values of resilience, discipline, and selfless service.

Mathern, a junior majoring in university studies/business, was nominated by Bismarck State Head Men’s Track & Field Coach Julia Hammerschmidt. In her nomination, Coach Hammerschmidt highlighted Mathern’s relentless resilience in the face of recurring hamstring injuries that have surfaced multiple times each year since his freshman season.

"Nathan has attacked every setback with discipline and purpose," Hammerschmidt noted, detailing how he prioritizes his rehab, nutrition, and sleep to ensure he is ready when his team needs him most.
Beyond his physical recovery, Hammerschmidt emphasized Mathern’s elite mental toughness and leadership:

• Performance Under Pressure: As a freshman from Legacy High School, Mathern qualified for multiple national championships. At the JUCO Nationals, he delivered a personal best performance while competing against top international competition and Olympic finalists.
• Selfless Leadership: A team captain, Mathern often prioritizes team success over individual accolades. During his sophomore year, he opted to scratch his individual 200-meters event at nationals to remain fully prepared for the 4 x 400-meter relay, helping his team strive for All-American honors.
• Team Impact: Even when unable to compete due to injury, such as at this year's indoor conference championship, Mathern was the first to celebrate his teammates' success. He further fosters team culture by hosting bonding events, such as pasta nights, for the sprints and jumps groups.
• Academic Excellence: Off the track, Mathern maintains a GPA above 3.5, has earned Academic All-American honors, and balances the demands of a job alongside his training.

"Nathan’s story is one of grit, discipline, and character," said Hammerschmidt. "He demonstrates resilience through continuous adversity, loyalty to his teammates, and a deep sense of duty in how he prepares and competes".
 
Mathern’s dedication to Bismarck State and his ability to rise above personal and athletic challenges make him a quintessential recipient of this honor.