Doane Cross Country runner Thomas Oliver.
For senior Thomas Oliver, running is far more than a competitive sport; it’s a spiritual journey and a family tradition. A fifth-year cross-country and track athlete at Doane University, Oliver has made his mark on the field, earning All-American status and inspiring his teammates with his resilience and dedication. But his journey as an athlete began on two wheels, with an endurance foundation built during long bike rides under Nebraska’s open skies.
“I was definitely built for endurance,” Oliver said, laughing as he recalled his high school days at Lincoln East.
“I learned a lot about myself on my bike. Even before I knew I’d be a runner, I realized I wasn’t cut out for sprints, but I could go for miles,” Oliver said.
His father, a cycling enthusiast, instilled in him a love for endurance sports and a deep respect for natural talent.
“He taught me to never take my God-given talent for granted, and always to respect the race,” Oliver said.
Alongside his mother, sister, and grandparents, his father has remained one of his greatest motivators, supporting him at meets and cheering especially hard when he races in the 3K steeplechase—a favorite event for his family that Oliver likens to “horse racing.”
Oliver’s faith plays an equally significant role in his athletic journey.
“Endurance sports are interesting when it comes to faith,” Oliver said.
“Before each race, especially big ones, I tell God, ‘Let me show You what I can do with this amazing talent You’ve given me,’” Oliver said.
Students who competed at the Dort Invite Cross Country meet.
Last year, during the Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC) outdoor championships, Oliver faced a daunting setback in the 3K steeplechase. He fell with two laps to go, giving the lead to another runner.
“I hit the ground, and that was it for me “God took over,” Oliver said.
“He steadied me and gave me the strength to close the fastest two laps of my life. I didn’t deserve to win, but His love prevailed,” Oliver said.
Moments like these have only strengthened his bond with his faith, motivating him to keep pushing limits both on the track and in life.
Taking his fifth year of eligibility was a decision Oilver didn’t expect to make.
“If you’d asked me five months ago, I’d have said ‘heck no!,’” Oliver said.
But as his final season approached, he felt a pull to stay a little longer.
“Everyone said the same thing: ‘Stay in college as long as you can.’ It’s been worth it. On the men’s team, we have unfinished business. I’m grateful to stay and witness the program that I’ve helped build with coaches Dustin Llewellyn and Brad Jenny really take off.” Oliver said.
He owes it to his talent, his coaches, and his teammates to push for one last season before he moves on.
As a senior leader on the team, Oliver is keenly aware of his role in shaping the experiences of younger athletes. His advice to them is simple:
“Be thankful for our amazing program,” Oliver said.
He encourages his teammates to adopt the mantra of his coach, Dustin Llewellyn.
“Show up every day, give your best effort, and you can be great,” Llewellyn said.
It’s a philosophy that Oliver has lived by, even through the inevitable doubts, fatigue, and frustration that come with distance running.
“Everyone wants to quit at some point,” Oliver said, “but you have to ask yourself: what’s on the other side of this final rep, or this last lap?”
With his collegiate career winding down, Oliver said he looks forward to closing out his final races by following the principles that have guided him since he began: show up, work hard, and commit.
“The best decision I ever made was choosing Doane,” Oliver said. “This program and this sport have taught me more than I could have imagined about myself, my faith, and commitment.”
He said he believes that Doane’s track and cross-country team will continue to reach new heights long after he’s gone and he hopes his legacy of dedication and resilience will endure. For Oliver, running is more than just a sport. It’s a way to connect with God, honor his family and leave a lasting impact on those who follow. As he faces his final collegiate season, he’s reminded of his dad’s advice: respect the race, but never forget the joy of the journey.
