For 50 years, the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club has been synonymous with developing student-athletes ready to excel at the highest levels of sport and academia. The latest names to carry this proud tradition forward are Grace Streek and Quinn Coughlin, who last week announced their commitments to Miami University in Ohio and Colorado State University, respectively.
Both athletes will begin their NCAA journeys next fall, joining a legacy of Lions alumni who have balanced academic success with athletic excellence in the intensely competitive world of collegiate sports.
Coughlin’s Path to Colorado
For hurdler Quinn Coughlin, Colorado State represents not just the next chapter in her career but the realisation of a lifelong dream. “It’s been a dream for a few years now, so I feel confident this is the right place to continue my athletic and academic careers,” she shared on Instagram. “I’m ready to start this next chapter of my life and see what’s in store for the future.”
Coughlin’s accomplishments speak volumes. She captured gold in both the 400 metres and 400-metre hurdles at the 2024 Athletics Ontario U20 Championships, adding to her national title in the U18 400-metre hurdles. From a novice silver medalist at OFSAA to one of Canada’s top hurdlers, her journey has been defined by determination and the unwavering support of her Lions community.
Now heading to Fort Collins, Colo., Coughlin joins a Rams program known for its focus on personal and athletic development. The school’s track and field tradition includes Ottawa Lions alum Lauren Gale, a 2022 graduate who represented Canada at the Olympics and World Championships.
Streek’s Journey to Miami
Grace Streek, a talented distance runner and steeplechase standout, will bring her impressive skill set to the Miami RedHawks in Ohio. In her announcement, she wrote, “I am truly blessed and sure that this is the path God has intended for me.” Streek expressed gratitude to her family, friends, and coaches at the Lions and Peak Centre Academy, crediting them with shaping her into the athlete and person she is today.
Her 2024 season hinted at even greater achievements to come. Streek captured gold in the 2000-metre steeplechase and 3000 metres at the Athletics Ontario U18 Championships and added an OFSAA title in the steeplechase alongside a silver medal in the 3000 metres. Her performances showcase her ability to excel in high-pressure moments.
Miami University offers Streek the chance to compete in the Mid-American Conference, following in the footsteps of Lions alum Owen Day, who graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 2021. The program is poised to further develop her immense potential.
A Tradition of Excellence
Streek and Coughlin’s NCAA commitments are the latest chapter in the Ottawa Lions’ storied history of producing exceptional athletes. Their achievements reflect the resilience, discipline, and community support that have long defined the Lions’ program.
As they prepare to compete for Colorado State and Miami University, both athletes carry the hopes and pride of the Lions family. Their journeys exemplify the remarkable possibilities that arise when passion meets preparation.
The entire Lions community will be cheering Quinn and Grace on as they step onto the NCAA stage and into their bright futures.