Whitefish Native Erin Wilde Excels in High Jump for Montana Grizzlies

Wilde breaks school record, aims for seventh Big Sky Conference title

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:03am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, multi-perspective painting in a cubist style, using sharp geometric planes and the University of Montana's official team colors to depict the high jump competition in an abstract, energetic way.A cubist-inspired illustration captures the energy and artistry of Erin Wilde's record-breaking high jump career with the Montana Grizzlies.Missoula Today

Erin Wilde, a senior at the University of Montana, is concluding a highly successful high jump career with the Montana Grizzlies. The Whitefish native is a six-time Big Sky Conference champion, having won three indoor titles and three outdoor titles. Earlier this month, Wilde broke her own school record by clearing 6 feet in the outdoor high jump, becoming the first woman to do so at Dornblaser Field.

Why it matters

Wilde's accomplishments highlight the University of Montana's strong track and field program, as well as the talent and dedication of local athletes like Wilde who choose to compete for their home-state university. Her story also serves as an inspiration for young athletes in Montana who aspire to reach new heights in their respective sports.

The details

Wilde, who stands 5-foot-8, has excelled in the high jump despite dealing with scoliosis. She credits her positive mindset and the support of her coaches and teammates for helping her overcome obstacles and reach new levels of success. Wilde's record-breaking 6-foot jump this month ranks fifth in the NCAA West Region.

  • Wilde has won three indoor Big Sky Conference high jump titles since her sophomore year.
  • Wilde has won three outdoor Big Sky Conference high jump titles since joining the Montana Grizzlies.
  • Earlier this month, Wilde broke her own school record by clearing 6 feet in the outdoor high jump.

The players

Erin Wilde

A senior at the University of Montana and a native of Whitefish, Montana, Wilde is a six-time Big Sky Conference champion in the high jump.

Erica Fraley

The vertical jumps coach for the Montana Grizzlies, Fraley has mentored Wilde throughout her collegiate career.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm super proud of myself, that's all I can really say about that. It's been a crazy thing for me. Dealing with a lot can be hard with track because it's all so mental. But after I got over that obstacle and that hurdle, it was more like, this is like what I want to do because I love it. I love the sport. I love the people. I love high jumping.”

— Erin Wilde, Montana Grizzlies Senior

“(UM vertical jumps coach) Erica (Fraley) told me to be who I am ever since my freshman year. So we just kind of sing and dance and listen to our favorite music, and you do what you do to stay happy.”

— Erin Wilde, Montana Grizzlies Senior

What’s next

Wilde will look to capture her seventh Big Sky Conference high jump title at the upcoming outdoor championships, where she aims to become the second woman ever to win four outdoor titles in the event. She also hopes to qualify for the NCAA West Regional and potentially the NCAA Championships to cap off her decorated collegiate career.

The takeaway

Erin Wilde's inspiring story highlights the talent and dedication of local Montana athletes who choose to represent their home-state university. Her record-breaking performances and mental toughness in the face of adversity serve as a model for young athletes across the state who aspire to reach new heights in their respective sports.