The Pioneer Spotlight this week shines on two outstanding jumpers who represent the Cal State East Bay Track & Field programs - Benjamin Chang and Julia Carmona.
Benjamin ChangFor senior jumper Benjamin Chang, competing for Cal State East Bay Track & Field has been about much more than athletic results—it's been a journey of personal growth, resilience, and inspiration. A transfer from Sacramento State, Chang has made an undeniable impact in his two seasons with the Pioneers.
This season, he's been in peak form—earning five top-three finishes across multiple events and winning the long jump twice. The highlight came in his hometown of Clovis, California at the West Coast Relays, where he launched a career-best 7.19 meters to take first place.
"Being a Cal State East Bay Pioneer means a lot to me," he says. "It gives me the chance to start fresh and create my own path. Being here motivates me to keep moving forward and make the most of every opportunity."
During his junior season, Chang made waves by winning the long jump at the Chabot Opener, placing second in the triple jump with a personal best of 12.71 meters, and contributing to a winning 4x100 relay team at the West Coast Opener.
His athletic drive is deeply personal. "As a student-athlete, I inspire myself by pushing my limits and seeing how far I can go," he explains. "My family is a big source of inspiration. I want to be a role model for the younger ones and show them what's possible with hard work."
Chang's goals are crystal clear: become an All-American, qualify for nationals, and eventually pursue a master's degree while continuing to compete. Off the track, he envisions a career in the tech industry, inspired by his high school coach who introduced him to computer science.
When he's not training or studying, Chang enjoys exploring the Bay Area with his teammates and advocating for causes close to his heart, especially men's mental health. "Mental health should be taken just as seriously as physical health," he says. "I want to be part of the conversation that encourages support and real awareness."
Julia CarmonaFreshman jumper Julia Carmona may be new to collegiate track & field, but she's already making a name for herself at Cal State East Bay, coming all the way from Mililani, Hawaii. She has racked up two straight wins in the triple jump, and notched a personal best long jump of 5.45 meters at the Occidental Distance Carnival & Spring Break Classic.
"The university had my major, Forensic Science, and a D2 track team," Carmona shares.
Julia's motivation comes from the hunger to improve. "Something that inspires me is knowing I haven't reached my full potential. I'm still learning, still growing, and constantly pushing myself further," she says. "Seeing improvement, even in the small things, proves to me that my hard work is paying off and the best is still ahead."
With eyes set on placing at the CCAA Conference Meet and a long-term dream of qualifying for Division II Nationals, Julia balances competitive fire with quiet determination. She also finds peace in the simple joys of life—hiking, going to the beach, or enjoying listening to music.
Her academic path was inspired by her love for mystery and thriller books, which sparked a fascination with the field of forensics. It's a perfect parallel to her athletic outlook: attention to detail, persistence, and a curiosity that never quits.
Latest Women's Track
- MEET RECAP: Women's Track Concludes Regular Season at Johnny Mathis InvitationalSAN FRANCISCO – Cal State East Bay women's track and field wrapped up the 2025 regular season over the weekend at the Johnny Mathis Invitational, hosted by San Francisco State at Cox Stadium. Competing against a mix of Division I, II, II, NAIA and two-year college programs, club teams and unattached athletes, the Pioneers placed ninth among 14 scoring teams in the two-day meet.
- MEET RECAP: Women's Track & Field at Bryan Clay Invitational
- Pioneer Preview: April 16-23The final home softball series takes place this week, along with a home baseball series, the track teams go to separate meets and next Monday through Wednesday, both golf teams will compete for a CCAA Championship in Santa Barbara.
- MEET RECAP: Women's Track & Field at Chico Invitational & Distance CarnivalCHICO, Calif. — The Cal State East Bay women's track and field team continued its 2025 campaign at the Chico Invitational & Distance Carnival on Friday and Saturday at University Stadium, hosted by Chico State. The Pioneers turned in several standout performances across both track and field events as they prepare for the stretch run of the regular season. East Bay finished sixth among 15 scoring teams.
- MEET RECAP: Women's Track & Field at Mike Fanelli Track Classic and Stanford InvitationalSAN FRANCISCO/STANFORD, Calif. – Cal State East Bay women's track & field wrapped up competition at the Mike Fanelli Track Classic and Stanford Invitational with solid performances highlighted by multiple personal bests and a top finish in the field events. Below are the more notable performances among the Pioneers throughout both meets.
- Cal State East Bay Athletics and Gameday Logistics Secure Working PartnershipHAYWARD, Calif. – Cal State East Bay Athletics announces a new partnership with Gameday Logistics for management of team travel arrangements starting with the 2025-26 athletic year. The partnership agreement is in effect for the next three years.
