NORMAL, Ill. (WCIA) – Lincoln native Becca Heitzig, a standout with four IHSA track state championships and a cross country title during high school, along with being named WCIA 3’s Female Athlete of the Year, encountered difficulties with self-assurance during the initial phase of her university athletic journey.
“It’s merely the sensation of not belonging,” Heitzig shared with WCIA. “You find yourself among exceptionally talented competitors. You participate in events alongside athletes nationally recognized for their skill. Observing them, you question, ‘I don’t believe I should be competing here.’ Essentially, you perceive yourself as inadequate.”
Heitzig, who competed for Iowa State University for her initial eighteen months of higher education, experienced both successes and setbacks, eventually concluding that a fresh start was necessary following the 2025 cross country campaign.
Currently, after only five months with the Illinois State track and field team, she exhibits considerably greater ease, which is evident in her improved performance metrics.
“I believe that simply having mentors and peers who have faith in you, and recognizing your capacity for excellence,” she commented on settling into her rhythm during her second year. “You are destined to be present. Everyone has assisted me in internalizing this sentiment throughout the current year… The previous year was quite challenging; I felt out of place at the starting line.”
Heitzig has already established two new records for the Redbird athletic program, achieving a time of 4:14 in the 1500-meter event and 2:46 in the 1K.
“My primary attention isn’t fixed on setting university records,” she stated. “My goal is simply to perform optimally. The coaching staff refrains from imposing excessive expectations on me. They possess great confidence in my abilities, yet they merely desire for me to compete authentically… I believe I benefit from excellent training companions here, and we motivate one another during practice sessions, which has been immensely beneficial… Ensuring that my sense of self extends beyond athletics and simply enjoying myself has contributed to my achievements.”
Furthermore, she secured an indoor Missouri Valley Conference championship in the 800-meter event.
“Each individual possesses pursuits beyond athletic competition,” Heitzig remarked concerning her compatibility with the Redbird program. “I believe it’s crucial – to participate in a campus organization, or engage in other on-campus activities. Such involvement holds significance, not solely running.”
“She unequivocally ranks among the most distinguished athletes we have recruited to Illinois State throughout my two decades here,” commented Jeff Bovee, the head track and field coach for Illinois State.
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