Athletics News

Head Track and Field Coach Jeff Pedersen share info about his life and work at Grinnell.

A photo essay highlighting moments from the 2025-2026 winter athletics season

For Jeff Smith, basketball in Grinnell has never just been about the game—it’s been about family, community, and the places that shape you long before you realize it. Smith’s journey reflects a story Grinnell knows well: roots that run deep, a willingness to explore beyond them, and a return driven by connection, service, and community.

For student-athletes living in Renfrow Hall, apartment-style living provides an opportunity to deepen the bonds they’ve already forged with teammates through their sport.

A photo essay highlighting fall athletics

This summer, Grinnell students explored the Four Corners region through three programs: a Grand Canyon outdoor recreation trip, a Colorado social justice institute and internship, and a Mentored Advanced Project (MAP) traveling to a Wyoming archaeological excavation.

For the first time ever, Grinnell athletes can call on two strength and conditioning coaches, Steve Lewis and Maddy Griess, who can focus on this important training component. 

Meet Kirsten Koester, head coach for the women’s soccer team, who came to Grinnell with a passion for the sport rooted in her own experience as an athlete. Who thinks that family is everything and that the community of Grinnell has also provided them with friends who feel like family.

Several men’s and women’s senior student-athletes earned special awards at this year’s Honor G Ceremony, held during Commencement Weekend.

A visual journey through the 2025 spring athletic season at Grinnell.