Raiya Matonovich of Simon Fraser was named both the GNAC Track Athlete of the Year and Freshman of the Year following an outstanding 2026 outdoor season. Matonovich's achievements include a bronze medal in the 1,500 meters at the NCAA Championships and winning the 1,500 meters and 800 meters championships at the GNAC Championships. Her remarkable times positioned her among the fastest in conference history, earning her All-American honors. Other notable winners include Maurice Woodring (Men's Track Athlete of the Year) and Laurenz Waldbauer (Men's Field Athlete of the Year).

By the Numbers
  • Raiya Matonovich's 1,500 meters time of 4:19.28 minutes is the third-fastest in GNAC history.
  • Her 800 meters PR of 2:06.38 minutes ranks as the 10th-fastest by a GNAC runner.
State of Play
  • Matonovich's two GNAC awards mark her as one of only three women to achieve this in a single season.
  • Western Washington's coach Ben Stensland led teams to four consecutive GNAC titles for both men and women.
What's Next

As Matonovich heads into future seasons, her record-setting performances and accolades will position her as a leading competitor for national titles. The ongoing rivalry in GNAC athletics suggests that other athletes will seek to rise to the challenge presented by her recent successes.

Bottom Line

Raiya Matonovich's dual recognition as GNAC Track Athlete of the Year and Freshman of the Year cements her status as a rising star in college athletics, emphasizing her potential for future victories and setting a new standard for Simon Fraser's track program.