Thomas Nelson understood that moving from New Glarus High School to college track and field would require adjustment. What became clearer over time was just how much the sport would reshape his daily routine, mindset, and definition of success.

Since arriving at UW–Stevens Point, Nelson has steadily lowered his times while competing in one of the strongest Division III conferences in the country. During the 2025 outdoor season, he placed fourth in the 1,500 meters at the St. Norbert College Early Bird, won the 5,000 meters at the UW–Platteville Invitational with a personal-best time of 15:46.99, and later set another personal best in the 1,500 at the Dick and Mary Johnson Invite. Indoors, he has added top-five finishes in the 5,000 while continuing to build consistency across distances.