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The NCAA Indoor track and field championships are an arm’s length away. And all the Bulldogs are bound to be cheering for one name this weekend. That’s Aaliyah Butler. Ranked number 1 on the 2025 world list, Butler is the fastest she has ever been. And with an Olympic medal added to her resume, she’s probably coming in with great confidence, too. But among all those cheering for her, two would have clapped for her as loud even without all these feathers on her cap. And those are her parents.

This Friday, Aaliya Butler is set to be sprinting on the 400-meter tracks of the Virginia Beach Center for the NCAA Championships. Yet, a lot of track fans are still unaware of her life beyond the tracks, especially her family. For now, let’s just say that the role that her parents played in Aaliyah Butler’s life has been monumental. Yes, she doesn’t hail from a rich track and field legacy, but her parents have been among the most supportive ones. Here’s every detail that you need to know.

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Who is Aaliyah Butler’s father?

21-year-old Aaliya Butler is the daughter of Nickholas Butler, who has always been extremely supportive of her track dreams. When she punched her ticket to the 400m dash at the U.S. Olympic Track & Field trials, Nickholas Butler had said,It’s a great feeling as a father and a family overall. We are very excited.”

How could he not be? Clocking a personal best of 49.71 in the 400 m, Aaliyah had come in second behind fellow South Floridian Kendall Ellis, 28, of Pembroke Pines (49.46). Clearly, Butler had lived up to everyone’s expectations. Thus, even while he was speaking to NBC 6 Florida, he said that she was extremely proud of Aaliyah. And that competing at the Olympics was one of Aaliyah’s biggest dreams. Also for the unknown, he works as an officiator. On December 1, 2024, on his Instagram account, a throwback picture of him officiating a football match at Traz Powell Stadium during Covid.

Aaliyah Butler’s cheer squad has another member, and that’s her mother.

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Who is Aaliyah Butler’s mother?

Aaliyah Butler’s mother’s name is Lashelle Oliver. She was equally as supportive as Nickholas when it came to Aaliyah’s track and field dreams. Thus, she started an online fundraiser to gather funds for attending the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris to support their daughter. Their message to the potential donors was, “By donating to our family, you will directly contribute to an unforgettable experience for us,” the Butlers wrote in part.

They also mentioned, “We truly believe that with your support, we can turn this dream into a reality. Your assistance will not only support our family but also serve as a testament to the power of community and the pursuit of dreams.” Well, obviously, this opportunity meant a lot to them and their daughter. Thus, they requested donations that would cover their travel, accommodation, and every expense that would help them be a part of Aaliyah’s remarkable journey.

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Not just this, Aaliyah Butler’s mother even accepted a donation on Aaliyah’s behalf from the Miami Northwestern Alumni Association for her Olympic debut in Paris. Clearly, they have never hesitated to turn every rock when it comes to supporting their daughter. What do you think about their unflinching support? Let us know below!

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