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Ridgewood’s Luke Pash Commits to UNC: A Rising Star in Distance Running

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Ridgewood’s Luke Pash Sets His Sights on Chapel Hill

Photo credit: @johnnepolitan

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, Luke Pash, a standout distance runner from Ridgewood, has announced his commitment to the University of North Carolina (UNC). Pash, who is the first Ridgewood athlete since 2019 to qualify for the prestigious Millrose Games High School Mile, chose the Tar Heels over ACC rivals University of Virginia and Wake Forest University.

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Pash’s decision solidifies a stellar recruiting class for UNC head coach Chris Miltenberg and assistant coach Ian Moini, which includes several top-ranked distance and middle-distance recruits from across the nation.

Why UNC Was the Perfect Fit

For Pash, the choice came down to more than just athletic prestige. He was drawn to UNC’s size, location, and community accessibility.

“I know I made the right decision and I’ve known it for a while,” said Pash. “My gut was telling me from the first time I saw it that it checked all my boxes, but I didn’t want to rush into it.”

Pash highlighted the convenience of campus life at UNC, with a short walk from freshman housing to practice facilities and dining halls. He also appreciated the vibrant community just outside the campus gates.

After weighing his options and receiving his final offer, Pash made his commitment official, saying:

“I don’t want to pick any school just for the money. I wanted a place that felt right, and UNC is that place.”

A Record-Breaking High School Career

Luke Pash’s achievements speak for themselves. Here’s a look at some of his standout performances:

  • Millrose Games High School Mile: Qualified with a US #5 performance.
  • New Jersey Meet of Champions: Set a record with a 4:04.49 time in the 1,600m.
  • State Cross-Country Meet of Champions: Finished 7th in 2023 and 33rd at Nike Cross Nationals.

Record Highlights

  • Glendoveer (North Jersey record, 2023): 15:42.2
  • Bowdoin (North Jersey record, 2023): 15:56.6
  • Belmont Plateau (North Jersey record, 2024): 16:01.2

Pash is also second on Ridgewood’s all-time list for both indoor and outdoor distances and holds a Bergen County record for the distance medley relay with a 4:02.24 anchor split.

UNC’s Star-Studded Recruiting Class

Pash will join a powerhouse recruiting class that includes:

  • Robert Mechura: Minnesota state cross-country and distance champion (#5 recruit).
  • Joe Barrett: New Jersey state cross-country champion (#9 recruit).
  • Tommy Lathan: Georgia distance champion (#11 recruit).
  • Jack Bowen: Tennessee cross-country runner-up (#25 recruit).

Ranked as the #24 cross-country recruit and #60 track and field recruit by MileSplit, Pash is poised to make an immediate impact on UNC’s storied program.

What’s Next for Pash

Pash plans to officially sign his Letter of Intent on November 13, marking the start of his journey as a Tar Heel. In the meantime, he’s focused on finishing his high school career strong and continuing to break records.

“Now I can concentrate on my senior year of running,” he said.

Conclusion

Luke Pash’s commitment to UNC is not just a testament to his incredible talent but also his dedication to finding the right fit both on and off the track. With his impressive high school career and UNC’s strong support system, the future looks bright for this Ridgewood runner.

 

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2 thoughts on “Ridgewood’s Luke Pash Commits to UNC: A Rising Star in Distance Running

  1. Not a bad choice….go somewhere warm.

    Take a year off and get stronger.

  2. he committed months ago

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