DALLAS, Texas (SMU) -- SMU Track and Field's Assistant Sprints/Hurdles Coach Bridgette Owens has been appointed to serve as the Assistant Coach for Sprints and Hurdles for the USATF National Team at the 2026 World Indoor Championships. The Championships will take place March 20-22 in Kujawy Pomorze, Poland. 

Coaches are nominated and vetted through a very competitive and thorough process based on experience, performance history, athlete development, and contributions to the sport of track and field. Final approval goes through USATF's committee. 

"It's truly an honor to be selected among so many accomplished coaches across the country," Owens said.  

This is Owens's second time being selected to serve on the USATF National Team. Last year, she was chosen for the U20 Pan American Games, however, USATF did not send up sending a team and the trip was canceled. 

"To be selected again this year is incredibly meaningful," Owens said. "I'm truly grateful to God for the opportunity to represent both our institution and USA Track and Field on the world stage." 

In her role, Owns will assist in preparation and provide overall technical and competitive support for the sprint and hurdle athletes throughout the championship in a collaborative effort focused on helping the athletes perform at their high level. 

"To be trusted to coach the best athletes in the country at a World Championship reflects years of dedication to the craft, commitment to athlete development, and a belief in doing things the right way," Owen said. "I'm grateful for the support of our administration and my head coach, A'Havahla Haynes, who encourage opportunities like this. Experiences like this not only elevate me as a coach but ultimately benefit the student athletes I work with every day."