Committed: Keegan Geldean

Keegan Geldean took his first strides as a runner when most kids were still figuring out how to tie their shoes. But after more than a decade of early morning practices, hot midday track meets, and national title races, the 2025 Niwot High School graduate is about to start a brand new chapter.

Geldean is set to compete in cross country and track at Adams State University, a top-tier NCAA Division II program in Alamosa, Colorado. The decision came after a campus visit and a scholarship offer following Nike Cross Nationals, where Geldean helped Niwot chase a national championship this past fall.

"Honestly, I think the awesome energy and vibe of the place when I visited, plus the scholarship money after Nike Cross Nationals, was a perfect storm," he said. "I'm really excited for this next chapter."

Geldean's path to college running began when he was just five years old. At first, it was his dad encouraging him to keep going. Then came his teammates in Junior Olympics, followed by REAL Training, a club team he has worked with for the past six years under Coach Kelly Christensen, who is also the head cross country coach at Niwot High School.

He credits Christensen with playing a huge role in his development as a runner and as a person. "I have been running with him for six years now, and they have been the best and most successful years," Geldean said. "I am insanely grateful for him and what he has done. He is very humble, but he deserves all the thanks and props."

As a Cougar, Geldean found a strong sense of belonging. Though running is often seen as an individual sport, Geldean said it is the team aspect that has always kept him coming back.

"We have such a close bond that I don't think happens every day," he said. "It's really special, and it's going to be weird without it."

One of his favorite memories from high school was a rainy, chaotic team run filled with puddles and laughter. "No one escaped the carnage, and we all just had a blast," he said. "It was probably the hardest easy run event because we were laughing so much."

Geldean's favorite event is the 5K in cross country. He thrives in longer distances and finds meaning in the grind it takes to succeed. That mindset helped him power through dealing with nagging injuries during tough points in the season. While they were never severe, they were disruptive enough to test his focus and determination.

"I had to dig deep to overcome them," he said.

Geldean first realized he might have a future in college running after his freshman cross country season. Encouragement from coaches and improving performances showed him that the potential was there, and with time, so was the drive.

Now, he is looking forward to the challenges of college athletics. "I know it's going to be a different experience and a way different feel, but I am ready," he said. "Just a new environment and a greater challenge."

For younger athletes, Geldean emphasized the importance of taking care of the little things like sleep, nutrition, strength work, and recovery.

"But also make sure to have fun," he shared. "If you only let yourself focus on your sport, it will never work out fully. Live and be happy while working hard."