A WilmU NCAA Milestone: Donte Dockery Jumps Into the History Books 

Photo by Eric Flores

The pressure was on in Pueblo, Colorado, as Wilmington University triple jumper Donte Dockery prepared for his last jump of the season. He’d made the finals at the 2025 NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships but stood in ninth place after two jumps — with one chance left. 

“My whole point and purpose was trying to get on that podium,” says Dockery, who’s pursuing a B.S. in Business Management with a concentration in Sport Management. “I had to make that happen.” 

And he did, soaring 16.19 meters. 

“My jaw just dropped,” Dockery says. “That was the best jump of my life.” 

He came in third overall, earning not only a spot on the podium but also in WilmU history. Dockery was the first Wildcat to appear at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships, and he set a new school record. 

“Those are the types of moments that make me love this sport,” he says. “There’s no better feeling than hearing the crowd go crazy.” 

Now an All-American athlete, Dockery started track and field at age 11. After graduating from Alexis I. DuPont High School, he attended a local college and then transferred to Wilmington University, where he’s wrapping up his sophomore year. 

“Donte’s third-place finish is incredibly meaningful because it represents more than just athletic talent — it symbolizes what’s possible even when the odds aren’t in your favor,” says Reggie Hopkins, WilmU track and field head coach. “Our program doesn’t have traditional athletic facilities or a typical campus environment, yet we’re still producing athletes who can compete on the national stage. We believe that these kinds of challenges build character, and Donte is a perfect example of that. His performance reflects the heart and drive of our entire program.” 

Dockery chose WilmU, in part, because of “the hospitality the coaches gave me when I first met them,” he says.  

The coaches impressed him, and he impressed them. 

“Donte is a hardworking, dedicated and talented athlete with a strong attention to detail,” Coach Hopkins says. “His foundation as a competitor makes him easy to coach — he’s someone who understands the importance of discipline and preparation, which makes the transition to higher levels of competition seamless. He puts in the work every day and leads by example.” 

Looking ahead to next year’s competition, Dockery is setting his sights ever higher.  

“My goal is to go to nationals again, win and break the record,” he says.