ILLINOIS FLAMES
JUNIOR OLYMPICS
GAMES QUALIFIERS
Every season begins with a dream - but only the most dedicated athletes earn the opportunity to compete on the national stage.
TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS
BY THE NUMBERS
OFFICIAL QUALIFICATION CREDENTIALS
TICKETS PUNCHED
Every qualifier earns their personalized Illinois Flames ticket to the national stage. Download, print, and share your achievement with family and friends.
13 GIRLS DIVISION
RAYIAH HATTEN
Events: Javelin
14 GIRLS DIVISION
KAILEY UHTER
Events: Javelin
14 GIRLS DIVISION
TEALA BUTLER
Events: Javelin
THE JOURNEY
ROAD TO DES MOINES
Every season begins with a dream. Through discipline, sweat, and fire, only the elite earn the right to step onto the national stage.
Season Begins
Setting the foundation.
District Qualifier
The first major cut.
Regional Qualifier
Earning the right.
Junior Olympics
The National Stage.
AAU JUNIOR OLYMPIC GAMES
THE NATIONAL STAGE
THE PINNACLE OF YOUTH TRACK
The AAU Junior Olympic Games represent one of the highest levels of youth amateur competition in the United States. Each year, thousands of athletes from across the country earn the opportunity to compete after advancing through rigorous District and Regional Qualifier Meets.
Qualifying for the Junior Olympics is a significant accomplishment and reflects an athlete's dedication, preparation, and commitment to excellence. It is the defining moment where a season of hard work meets the ultimate national stage.
EVENT LOGISTICS
LOCATION: Des Moines, Iowa
VENUE: Drake Stadium
DATES: August 3–8, 2026
COMPETITION: Nation's Best Youth Track & Field Athletes
SEASON HIGHLIGHTS
OUR PHILOSOPHY
COACHING EXCELLENCE
BUILDING STRONGER PEOPLE
"The journey to the Junior Olympics is never easy, and that's what makes this accomplishment so meaningful. Every practice, every workout, every challenge, and every race has prepared our athletes for this moment. Watching our athletes grow not only as competitors but also as confident, disciplined, and resilient young leaders has been one of our greatest rewards."
- Dr. Wanikka Vance-Clark, Coach
At Illinois Flames, we believe in coaching the whole athlete. Our goal is not simply to build faster athletes, but to build stronger people through:
- Excellence in every endeavor
- Uncompromising integrity
- Leadership on and off the track
- Discipline and perseverance
- Character and sportsmanship
THANK YOU FAMILIES
Behind every athlete is a family that sacrifices countless hours to help make their dreams possible. Thank you to every parent, guardian, grandparent, sibling, and supporter who has invested your time, energy, encouragement, and resources throughout the season.
Your commitment makes this journey possible, and we celebrate this achievement with you.
VOLUNTEERS & SUPPORTERS
The Illinois Flames are stronger because of the incredible volunteers, sponsors, officials, and community members who continue to support our athletes. Thank you for believing in our vision and helping us create opportunities for the next generation of champions.
THE CLOCK IS TICKING
COUNTDOWN TO NATIONALS
Help our athletes as they travel to compete on the national stage. Every contribution brings us one step closer to gold.
TOGETHER WE RISE
One Team. One Dream. One Flame.
© 2026 Illinois Flames. All Rights Reserved. One Team. One Dream. One Flame.