HAWKLET LEGEND BILL HAYES ’25 EARNS SPOT ON NOTRE DAME TRACK & FIELD TEAM AFTER STELLAR STATE TITLE RUN—One of Missouri’s Fastest Ever Heads to South Bend Following Record-Breaking Performances

When an athlete achieves greatness on the track, the clock doesn’t lie. And in the case of Bill Hayes ’25, the clock told a story of perseverance, talent, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Now, that story is taking its next chapter to the iconic campus of the University of Notre Dame, where Hayes will continue both his academic and athletic career as a member of the Fighting Irish Track & Field program. This honor is more than just a reward for one great race or a single standout season—it’s a testament to a career filled with remarkable accomplishments, capped off by a dominant run through the Missouri State Championships and a stellar showing at the New Balance Nationals.

Hayes had already been accepted and enrolled at Notre Dame for the upcoming fall semester, content to continue his academic journey at one of the nation’s most prestigious institutions. But after turning heads with his jaw-dropping performance at the State Championship Meet—where he claimed the title in the 800 meters—and then solidifying his elite status at the New Balance Nationals, Notre Dame coaches made it official. They extended an offer for him to join the track and field team, recognizing that Hayes wasn’t just any incoming student. He was a special kind of runner—one with the rare blend of speed, endurance, and championship pedigree.

During his time at The Rock, Hayes carved his name into school history as one of the most decorated runners the program has ever seen. He didn’t just collect medals—he built a legacy. With seven All-State honors to his name, Hayes’s consistency and dominance across both individual and relay events helped elevate his team to new heights. He was part of back-to-back state championship 4x800m relay teams in 2024 and 2025, showcasing not just his individual prowess but his ability to thrive in high-stakes team settings. His crowning achievement came in 2025 when he clinched the individual state title in the 800 meters, posting a blistering time of 1:51.06—a personal record that ranks second all-time in school history and eighth all-time in the entire state of Missouri.

That time alone would be enough to place Hayes among the elite, but it was the context that made it even more impressive. The 800 meters is widely considered one of the most grueling middle-distance events in track and field, requiring both tactical intelligence and raw physical ability. Hayes ran the race with precision and poise beyond his years, surging at the right moment, fending off elite competitors, and finishing with a kick that left no doubt about his superiority. It was a race that not only secured a state title but also caught the attention of collegiate coaches across the country. Notre Dame, known for its tradition of excellence and competitive athletic programs, saw in Hayes a perfect fit for their storied program.

But Hayes’s rise was not overnight. It was the result of years of hard work, early morning practices, and an unwavering commitment to improvement. Coaches, teammates, and competitors alike have long admired his work ethic and leadership. On and off the track, Hayes was a model student-athlete—someone who inspired those around him not just through his performances but also through his humility and dedication. Whether it was helping younger teammates with their form, pushing the pace during workouts, or staying late to perfect his technique, Hayes embodied what it meant to be a Hawklet.

His impact at The Rock goes far beyond times and titles. Hayes helped redefine what was possible for student-athletes at the school, setting a new standard for excellence and laying the groundwork for future generations to follow. His presence elevated the entire program, creating a culture of high expectations and mutual support. As he moves on to the next level, his influence will continue to be felt within the walls of his alma mater. Younger athletes will look at the banners, see his name in the record books, and know that with enough hard work, they too can chase greatness.

The New Balance Nationals was the final exclamation point on Hayes’s high school career. Competing against the best of the best from across the country, he held his own and then some, proving that his success wasn’t limited to the state level. National meets are often the proving ground for collegiate potential, and Hayes passed the test with flying colors. His composure in a high-pressure environment, ability to race strategically, and raw speed left no doubt that he belonged among the elite. It was the kind of performance that forces programs to take notice—and Notre Dame didn’t hesitate.

Joining the Fighting Irish track program is no small feat. Notre Dame competes at the highest levels of NCAA Division I athletics and is part of a conference loaded with talent. For Hayes, the transition will come with challenges—more intense training schedules, stronger competition, and the balancing act of rigorous academics. But if his time at The Rock is any indication, he’s more than ready for the leap. His background of thriving under pressure and continually pushing his limits suggests he’ll not only adapt but thrive in South Bend.

The excitement around his commitment has been palpable. Coaches, family, friends, and alumni of The Rock have rallied around the news, celebrating the culmination of a journey that started with promise and finished with glory. Social media buzzed with tributes and congratulations, all recognizing that this wasn’t just a personal victory for Hayes—it was a moment of pride for the entire school community. Seeing one of their own rise to such a level reinforces what’s possible for future student-athletes, providing both inspiration and a tangible example of success.

Looking ahead, the future is bright for Bill Hayes. As he dons the blue and gold of Notre Dame, he brings with him not just a résumé of victories but a mindset built for sustained success. His passion for the sport, relentless drive, and ability to perform on the biggest stages will serve him well as he embarks on this next chapter. College track is a different beast—longer seasons, deeper fields, and elevated expectations—but Hayes has already shown that he’s not one to shy away from a challenge. If anything, he welcomes it.

At Notre Dame, he’ll have access to world-class coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, and a training environment designed to bring out the very best in each athlete. It’s a place where champions are made—and Hayes has every tool to become one at the collegiate level. Whether it’s anchoring relay teams, contending for individual conference titles, or eventually aiming for national honors, there’s no ceiling to what he can achieve. And beyond athletics, he’ll be part of a university known for producing leaders, thinkers, and changemakers—a place where his impact can extend far beyond the track.

As he prepares to leave the halls of The Rock and begin his journey in South Bend, Hayes carries with him more than just medals and personal records. He brings a legacy of excellence, a community of supporters, and a relentless pursuit of greatness that shows no signs of slowing down. In a sport measured by fractions of a second, Bill Hayes has already made every moment count—and the best may still be to come.