Nevada State University freshman sprinter and hurdler Kendry Mendia is set to cap an historic inaugural season for the Scorpions' track & field program by competing at the 2026 USATF U20 Outdoor Championships at Hayward Field in Eugene, Ore. on June 18 and 19. 

Mendia will compete for a chance to represent Team USA at the World Athletics U20 Championships, which will also take place in Eugene in August 2026.

Mendia's invitation comes after a standout year as one of the first student-athletes to compete in outdoor track & field events for Nevada State. Throughout the inaugural season, Mendia showcased his versatility and competitiveness across multiple events delivering personal bests, championship-caliber performances, and several of the program's first school records.

Mendia set Nevada State benchmarks in 200 meters (20.81 seconds), 400 meters (46.73 seconds), and 400-meter hurdles (51.21 seconds), showcasing his ability to excel in both sprint and hurdle events at a high level. 
He also earned multiple top-five finishes throughout the season, placing him among the top competitors in the country. He took first place in 400-meter hurdles at the UNLV Rebel ELITE track meet on April 4 – the first opportunity for Mendia and his teammates to compete in front of home fans. 

"We are so proud of Kendry and his performances this season and are excited to see what he can do on the national stage," said Roy Session, head coach of track & field at Nevada State.

Beyond his performance on the track, Mendia emerged as a leader for the Scorpions, helping establish the culture, work ethic, and competitive standards that will shape the future of Nevada State Track & Field. His determination and commitment have played a key role in laying the foundation of the program from its first season onward.