Nate Moreland was born and raised in Portland, Oregon and attended Jackson High School where he played football and ran track. In 1979, he was named all-state in football. He attended the University of Oregon on a track scholarship and in 1980 and 1981 qualified for the PAC-10 championships in the 100 meters, 200 meters, the 4 X 100 meter relay, and the mile relay. Nate graduated with a B.S. degree from the University of Oregon in 1981.

In 1984 Nate qualified for the Olympic trials in the 100 meters and 400 meters events. He holds SPARQ, APEX and ACE certifications.