CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- Reed Emsick found a new beginning at Nebraska Wesleyan University. After transferring from UNK, he reignited his passion for running and discovered a team that felt like family. Surrounded by supportive coaches and teammates, Reed has set his sights high, dreaming of an 800m national title and embracing every moment of the Division III experience.
Finding a New Home at NWU
Transferring to Nebraska Wesleyan University was a turning point for Emsick. He credits the coaching staff and his former teammate for helping him find the right fit. “NWU was a no brainer to me. After spending 2 1/2 years at UNK I was contemplating retiring because of my time there. Luckily while my family encouraged me to give it another shot and enter the transfer portal. My former teammate Wes Ferguson is an assistant coach at NWU. Alongside Coach Mckenzie and Coach Berens they made my visit so good that I cancelled all my visits with other DI, DII, DIII, NAIA programs that day. After committing to Wesleyan, I found my spark and I finally understood when people say their team feels like a family,” he said.
Competing in the American Rivers Conference has also been a highlight. “Learning about the A-R-C and all the history is very fun. Coming from the MIAA I enjoy still having great competition with my fellow 800m runner and making friends from all the other schools in the conference,” Reed shared.
A Memorable Season
One of Emsick's favorite moments at NWU came during a relay race. “Our 4x800 running a D3 No. 1 time and beating Wartburg,” Reed recalled, highlighting the pride he felt in his team’s achievement.
Off the track, Emsick enjoys simple pleasures. “I love hanging out with my dog and playing video games with my friends. Sand volleyball is very fun to play with my teammates here, we have a great time,” he said. These moments help him stay balanced and connected to his teammates.
Chasing Big Goals
Emsick has clear ambitions for his athletic career. “Winning an 800m national title. NWU took a chance on me and I want to repay them,” he said. He also has his sights set on earning national recognition. “NCAA All-American DMR or NCAA national title,” Emsick added.
The support from his family, especially his mom, has been a constant source of motivation. “My mom has maybe missed 3 or 4 meets over the past 11 years I have been running. It forces me to compete my hardest and give my all because I know my parents are there watching me. My favorite story to tell is that parents drove 15+ hours to watch me get pushed in a National Championship Prelim just to go home that same day,” Emsick shared.
Embracing the Division III Experience
Emsick appreciates the close-knit community at NWU. “It might sound cliche but coming from a 'bigger' Division II school, it's awesome coming to class or events and everyone doesn't just know each other, but you have almost 2,000 friends,” he said.
He has also learned valuable lessons during his time at NWU. “The biggest lesson I have learned is that you can make a big difference just by changing your environment. I went from being just another guy on the team, then I came to NWU and they made me one of the best 800m runners in D3,” Emsick explained.
When he’s not training or in class, Emsick can be found enjoying his favorite hobbies. “When I am not doing anything school or running related you can find me playing NBA 2k27 or Fortnite with my friends,” he said. He even shared a fun fact: “Something a lot of people don't know about me is that I was once ranked top 25k in North America on Fortnite!”
Looking Ahead
As he continues his journey at NWU, Emsick remains inspired by his role models. “Lebron James, hands down he's my goat,” he said. With his determination and the support of his team and family, Emsick is ready to chase his goals and make the most of every opportunity at Nebraska Wesleyan University."
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About the American Rivers Conference
Nationally respected for excellence in NCAA Division III athletics, the American Rivers Conference (A-R-C) has a tradition dating back to its founding in 1922 as the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Association and adopted its current name in 2018 to reflect its strong Iowa roots and growing regional footprint. The A-R-C is a collaborative community that champions the holistic development of student-athletes, uniting member institutions in a shared commitment to academic achievement, athletic distinction, and leadership.
The A-R-C is home to eight full-time member institutions: Buena Vista University, Central College, Coe College, University of Dubuque, Loras College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Simpson College, and Wartburg College. The A-R-C also includes two affiliate members for men’s and women’s swimming & diving: Illinois Tech and University of Minnesota Morris.
