A senior middle-distance runner from Augusta, Georgia, Ivan Taylor joins the Fayetteville State men's track & field program after competing at Claflin University. Taylor specializes in the 400-meter and 800-meter events and brings championship experience, proven leadership, and a strong competitive mindset to the Broncos.
Prior to Fayetteville State, Taylor enjoyed a successful collegiate career highlighted by multiple CIAA championships. He was a two-time CIAA Indoor Champion during the 2024-25 season and added a CIAA Outdoor Championship in 2025. He also earned runner-up finishes in the 800 meters twice, helped capture three Distance Medley Relay (DMR) championships, and contributed to a runner-up finish in the 4x400-meter relay. During the outdoor season, he ranked second on his team in points scored.
Taylor graduated from Airport High School in 2023, where he competed in both track & field and football. He is pursuing a degree in Marketing and is expected to graduate in 2027. Following graduation, he hopes to start his own business.
At Fayetteville State, Taylor serves as a team captain, a role that reflects the trust and respect he has earned from coaches and teammates. He is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., where he continues to develop his leadership skills while participating in community service and outreach efforts.
Taylor chose Fayetteville State because of the opportunity to grow academically and athletically while competing at a high level. He values the chance to represent an HBCU and embraces the challenge of contributing to a new team environment.
His most memorable athletic experiences include winning his first CIAA championship ring and competing on the national stage. Taylor credits his mother as his biggest athletic influence and says his motivation comes from the constant opportunity to improve. Before competition, he likes to keep to himself, listen to music, and perform his signature pre-race shimmy.
Outside of athletics, Taylor enjoys gaming, reading, and trying new foods. His advice to younger athletes is simple: "Stay consistent and trust the process. Take your academics as seriously as your sport and appreciate every opportunity because your college career goes by fast."
