CEDARVILLE, Ohio - The NCCAA has recognized Phil Stupka of the Malone University track & field program as the 2026 John & Jody Wheeler Award winner for men's indoor track & field. He is the second Pioneer to win the GamePlan4Life (GP4L) award series from the NCCAA.
 
A senior for Malone, Stupka has been a phenomenal sprinter for Malone. He recorded a season-opening win in the 60-meter run at the Mount Union Toy Drive with a time of 6.89 seconds, the fifth fastest mark in the NCCAA. The Butler, Ohio native also tallied three top-five finishes at the Kent State Jud Logan Memorial event this year, fourth in the 60-meter run, fourth as a member of the Malone 4x400 meter relay team, and second in the 200-meter run with a time of 21.99 seconds, the fourth-fastest time in the NCCAA.
 
Stupka is a one-time NCCAA Student-Athlete of the Week for men's indoor track & field and earned NCCAA All-American honors in 2024 after finishing second in the 200-meter run. Off the track, Stupka holds a 3.77 GPA in exercise science. He was a 2025 NCCAA Scholar Athlete, has been named to the Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC) All-Academic Team twice, and has been named to the Dean's List at Malone across six different semesters.
 
Stupka missed the 2025 indoor and outdoor season due to injury, but still showed up to practice every day and encouraged his teammates and helped film workouts. While going through recovery, his younger sister sadly passed away. He also volunteered with the Malone 360 Youth Track & Field team and worked with elementary school athletes as a coach and mentor to help build fundamental track skills, while building relationships with the children and creating a positive coaching environment for those competing in the Canton, Ohio community.
 
Malone Director of Cross Country and Track & Field Zach Fresenko says, "Phil's circumstances with his injury and the loss of his younger sister last season would have been understandable reasons to step away, yet Phil chose to respond with faith, perseverance, and selfless leadership. Throughout the season, Phil remained fully present with the team. He attended practices daily, encouraged teammates, filmed workouts, and offered thoughtful feedback to help others improve. Even while walking through grief, he consistently placed the needs of his teammates above his own. His steady presence and positive attitude reflected a deep trust in God and a commitment to serving others during difficult times."
 
Stupka will be on the track for the NCCAA Championship meet on Saturday, February 14 in pursuit of a men's team championship and further individual success.