GRETNA, Neb. — The 2026 USATF Nebraska Junior Olympic Championships (JO’s) will be held at Gretna High School’s recently enhanced Track and Field Complex, a facility that has undergone significant improvements over the past year through a partnership between Gretna Public Schools and Nemaha Sports Construction.
Working closely with district leadership, Nemaha Sports Construction completed several key upgrades designed to elevate the facility’s capabilities and support championship-level competition. Improvements included the addition of a hammer throw cage, javelin runway, and steeplechase pit, transforming the complex into one of the Midwest’s premier track and field venues. These enhancements allow Gretna High School to host a broader range of events while providing athletes with collegiate-grade facilities that meet the demands of high-level competition.
“Projects like this are about creating opportunities for athletes and communities,” said Jeff Emanuel, Nemaha Sports Construction President. “Gretna’s investment in its facility demonstrates a commitment to supporting track and field at every level, and we’re proud to have helped deliver the infrastructure needed to host events of this caliber.”
According to USATF Nebraska President Mike Maryott, “This investment underscores Gretna’s commitment to maintaining a facility that meets the rigorous standards required for hosting major regional competitions.”
Building upon the success of the past three years, the 2026 event anticipates participation from more than 40 clubs statewide and will feature over 2,000 entries across a multi-day competition spanning June 17-20. The newly upgraded facility will serve as the backdrop for one of Nebraska’s largest youth track and field events, welcoming athletes from across the state as they compete for a chance to advance to regional and national competition.
About Nemaha Sports Construction
Nemaha Sports Construction is a leading sports construction specialist serving schools, universities, municipalities, and athletic organizations throughout the Midwest. The company specializes in synthetic turf fields, running tracks, stadiums, ballfields, and athletic facility improvements, helping clients create safe, high-performance venues that support athletes and communities for generations.
