Men's Cross Country

Student-Athlete Spotlight: Cooper Feltz, UW-Eau Claire

Each week during the 2025-26 academic year, the WIAC will feature two student-athletes (one male and one female) from one of its eight institutions for a “Student-Athlete Spotlight” Q & A segment. The segments will be posted every Thursday and individuals are selected by the institution. The WIAC Student-Athlete Spotlights are presented by Culver's.

Name:  Cooper Feltz
Institution:  UW- Eau Claire
Hometown and High School:  Germantown, Wis. (Germantown High School)
Year in school:  Senior
Sports:  Cross Country and Men’s Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field
Majors:  Accounting, Finance, and Economics

Why did you choose UW-Eau Claire?
I chose UW-Eau Claire because I knew the school had the academics and athletics to push me. In my opinion, the professors and the opportunities at Eau Claire are unmatched in the UW system. Additionally, I was joining a team that has and continues to reach the gold standard, while being a very supportive group outside of practice.
 
What other clubs/organizations on campus are you involved in?
I have an internship through the university called the Small Business Development Center, or “SBDC.” There, I work with small businesses in the area and across the state, providing free financial modeling and cash flow management services.

What do you like most about competing in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and being a NCAA Division III student-athlete?
The WIAC is filled with some of the most talented runners and teams in the nation. With so much greatness across the state, it pushes us to compete at a level above where we are comfortable, making us better in the process.
 
What is your favorite…
Menu item from Culver’s?  Vanilla Malt with Large Fries
Flavor of the Day from Culver’s?  Mint Explosion
Non-Athletic Spot on Campus?  3rd floor library
TV Show?  Avatar the last Airbender
Holiday?  4th of July
Food?  Grapes
Animal?  Dogs
Smartphone App?  Clash of Clans
Musical Group or Artist?  The Lumineers
Professional Sports Athlete or Team?  Milwaukee Bucks
Vacation Spot?  Boundary Waters
 
What is your greatest sports moment? 
When I look back at my running career, one of my favorite moments was the NCAA Regional Meet my sophomore year. I could not race due to health issues, but I still went to the meet to cheer for my team. We had been training for the last 6 months specifically for this race. My roommate and good friend rose to the occasion, setting a huge personal best. As much as I enjoy setting PRs, there is nothing like watching someone close to you accomplish their own goals.
 
What is your favorite thing to do off the court/field with your teammates?
I keep my days very busy, so I enjoy a calm evening and watch a movie with them.
 
Who is someone that you look up to?
Jim Rohn or my Dad
 
Do you have any words of advice for younger/upcoming student-athletes?
Consistency is Key. This does not mean every day, but it does mean doing things when you said you would. Also, never lose your love for your sport because that is more important than any accolade or trophy.
 
One word that describes you?
Persistent
 
What is your dream job? 
I would love to be a professional runner or triathlete
 
Three things on your "bucket list"?
---Visit all the national parks
---Be an IRONMAN
---Live in Oregon
 
A non-athletic talent that you have is?
I am fluent in Microsoft Excel

What’s your dream sporting event to attend?
IRONMAN World Champs in Kona, Hawaii
 
Do you have any pre-game/pre-event superstitions or rituals? If so, what are they?
I always listen to Dog Days Are Over by Florence + The Machine, and after I warm up, I always put on a fresh pair of socks.
 
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