Northern Arizona

The Northern Arizona Lumberjacks embody high-altitude determination and championship excellence at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff. Since 1915, the Lumberjacks have carved a legacy forged at over 7,000 feet elevation, combining rugged mountain resilience with national athletic dominance. Their men’s cross country program has transformed into America’s premier distance running dynasty, capturing six NCAA Division I national championships in seven years from 2016 to 2022 and delivering a perfect season in 2017. Led by visionary coach Michael Smith, NAU’s altitude advantage develops Olympians, including Lopez Lomong and David McNeill, who represent Lumberjack pride internationally. Their swimming and diving teams have claimed eight consecutive Western Athletic Conference titles, while women’s cross country and track programs build upon championship traditions. The iconic Walkup Skydome, nestled amid the ponderosa pines, provides a unique home-field atmosphere for Lumberjack athletics. Northern Arizona’s blue and gold colors symbolize tenacity and athletic excellence. The Lumberjacks continue a tradition where altitude and attitude combine, producing champions who rise to dominate on both regional and national stages.