The future of track and field is already taking shape this winter. Across California, middle school athletes are putting together breakthrough performances against high school competition, at national meets, and in competitive all-comers' events.
Here are 10 middle school boys and girls to watch after an outstanding winter season.
Girls
Giannah Johnson (Chino Hills Flash | Class of 2031)
After earning All-American honors at AAU XC Nationals last December, Giannah Johnson has used that momentum to spark a fantastic 2026 winter season. On top of securing the victory over a competitive field at The Mile @ Mesa, she was also pushed to run a 4:56.52 in the 1500m.
Stella Hahn (Unattached | Class of 2030)
So far, 2026 has been an undefeated 800m season for Stella Hahn, who has won both her races in impressive times. She first ran her fastest season opener at 2:25 and then returned the next week at the De Anza CA Winter Championships qualifier with a 2:22.
Simone White (Black Lightning | Class of 2030)
During this winter season, Simone White faced some of the best competition at California Winter Championship qualifiers and open collegiate meets. Her most impressive performance may have been at the RCC Early Bird Invitational, where she ran 43.77 in the 300m, putting her on track to break 60 seconds in the 400m this year. This winter, she also ran 7.93 in the 60m and 18.93 in the 150m dash.
It only took two high jump competitions for Paisley Stevens to match her personal record of 4-6 from last season. She achieved it at the Simi Valley All-Comers #2, where she placed 6th among high school athletes.
Boys
Ethan Mendoza (Ramirez Intermediate | Class of 2030)
Josiah Nwosu (Jacobs Pro Speed | Class of 2030)
Last year, Jacob Nwosu broke the 12-second barrier for the first time in the 100m, and he entered this season looking better than ever. At the Cal High All-Comers Meet, he ran a state-leading 11.47 seconds for middle schoolers.
Jalen Jefferson (Vista Verde | Class of 2030)
It's been a busy winter for Jalen Jefferson, marked by four impressive 400m performances, including three runs of 55 seconds. His best time was at the Santa Monica All-Comers meet, where he finished in 55.12 seconds.
At the Lobo Invitational in Monterey, Henry Bartle showcased his significant potential with a 2:06 in the 800m among community college athletes. This time beats his personal best of 2:08 set last year by two seconds.
In the shot put, Ivan Perez threw a state-leading 41-2 at the MULES Blue Pyramid Races. At this meet, he also secured the 400m victory in a time of 1:04.17.
The future of track and field is already taking shape this winter. Across California, middle school athletes are putting together breakthrough performances against high school competition, at national meets, and in competitive all-comers' events.
Here are 10 middle school boys and girls to watch after an outstanding winter season.
Girls
Giannah Johnson (Chino Hills Flash | Class of 2031)
