Many Division I athletes begin their careers at the early stages of their lives, getting a head start on their respective sport. For those that start late, it requires persevering, grinding, and never ending effort to catch up and have a chance of competing at the next level. Brody Bogos (‘25), is a prime example of this. Bogos recently committed to run at the University of Rutgers in New Brunswick.

Surprisingly, he had no experience up until sixth grade when he decided he wanted to try something new. However, Bogos’ journey hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows leading up to his commitment. He spoke on injuries that he has dealt with which served as obstacles.

“I sprained my foot freshman year and after that I would get scared every time I felt any pain. So up until late sophomore year I was over-cautious with the way I ran until I felt healthy again,” said Bogos.

He worked day in and day out, consistently putting in 110% effort to make it to where he is today. He has become a standout runner, earning many different awards and breaking school records. Earning All New Jersey Second Team honors, four Olympic Conference First Team namings, breaking Cherry Hill East’s dream park record, an impressive split which enhanced the Cougars’ indoor mile relay record, and the list goes on.

Bogos opened up about the recruitment process and what that looks like for a runner who got a late start to the sport, feeling behind. 

“Recruitment wasn’t anything special for me, I went on some day visits during my junior year, but since I didn’t have the greatest junior year I didn’t have many official visits to other schools,” said Bogos.

As for why his final decision led him to Rutgers, Bogos discussed that after being on campus, it sealed the deal for him. 

“I knew Rutgers was for me when I went on my official visit, they were my first overnight and I bonded with the guys right away. I had these moments with other schools, but Rutgers had a better business school which factored into it for me,” Bogos said.

From wanting to take on wrestling over track and cross country as a freshman, to becoming a Division I college runner, Brody Bogos has seen it all. He looks to improve even more at Rutgers, and vows to do whatever it takes to reach the next level.