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25 S enior Nathan Mylenek joined the University of Iowa cross country team his freshman year as a walk-on, and the past four years he has become one of the most decorated distance runners in program history. Mylenek is a natural leader. He was the team's top finisher for 11 straight races. Although being at the front of the Hawkeye pack was never his intention, his talents were undeniable, and when Iowa needed someone to look to, he was the guy. "At the start of the year, I stressed because I did not want to be the sole leader," said Mylenek. "I think a lot of the guys saw me as someone who was on his own island. I tried to relinquish that role, but I understood the importance of having a leader inside our pack. at's the type of runners we are. We have a close pack of guys who can run right next to each other. e importance of having a leader come out of that pack is what mattered." Mylenek entered college pursuing a degree in engineering. Not long into his career he realized he could possibly run professionally. Like other athletes of his caliber, coaching comes naturally, whether it's coaching peers or even himself. Mylenek knew this was something he would keep on his radar for the future. "I like trying to affect what our team can do," said Mylenek. "I want to be that person that makes a difference in people's lives because I've had plenty of people who have made a difference in my life." Mylenek finished the season by placing 85th at the NCAA Championships in Terre Haute, Indiana on Nov. 23. He is the first Hawkeye on the men's team to go to the NCAA Championships in back-to- back seasons and earn all-region since Jeff ode in 2010-11. Like all great competitors, he longed for more. "We executed how we wanted," Mylenek said. "I just didn't get out fast enough. at was the only issue." When it comes to support at Iowa, Mylenek looks to head coach Randy Hasenbank. As far as those who have been there since the beginning, Mylenek thinks of his parents, who reside in Clarkston, Michigan, but travel the country to see him compete. "As far as my career goes, Randy has been my biggest supporter. We've been through it all together," said Mylenek. "My parents come to every meet; they have been to everything, so they're going to be my top supporters no matter what." Mylenek will be remembered for setting the school record in the 10,000 meters, running into three all- time top-10 lists, being named Big Ten Athlete of the Week, and so much more. So, what's next? He has his sights set high on the 2019-20 track season. He is the returning school record-holder in the 3,000-meter steeplechase and finished ninth at the 2019 Outdoor NCAA Championships. "I want to be a national champion for the steeplechase. I think that is a reasonable goal considering how I did last year (ninth place at the NCAA Championships in Austin, Texas)," Mylenek said. "It's not going to be easy, but I think the field is beatable."