OTTAWA, Kan. – Ottawa University Director of Administrative Operations Jay Kahnt has announced the hiring of Jeremy Gathright as the new head coach of the Braves cross country and track & field programs.

"We are excited to welcome Jeremy Gathright to Ottawa University," said Kahnt. "Jeremy brings a wealth of coaching experience, a proven track record of developing successful student-athletes, and a passion for mentoring young people. His experience as both a coach and accomplished athlete will be a tremendous asset to our cross country and track & field programs."

Gathright comes to Ottawa after serving as an assistant track & field coach and admissions counselor at Kansas Wesleyan University since September of 2024. In his role with the Coyotes, he coached both the men's and women's track & field programs while overseeing training plans, recruiting efforts, academic support, and day-to-day program operations. He also worked extensively with prospective students and student-athletes, helping identify recruits who met the university's academic and athletic standards.

During his time at Kansas Wesleyan, the Coyotes achieved significant success, including a KCAC Men's Indoor Track & Field Runner-Up finish in 2026, a third-place finish at the 2026 KCAC Women's Indoor Championships, a KCAC Men's Outdoor Runner-Up finish in 2025, and the 2025 KCAC Men's Indoor Track & Field Championship. He also helped coach 15 KCAC All-Conference performers and a KCAC 60-meter champion.

Prior to his return to Kansas Wesleyan, Gathright spent more than three years as an assistant track & field coach at Laney College in Oakland, Calif. There, he coached the women's track & field team, assisted with recruiting efforts, facilitated practices, and mentored student-athletes while helping host collegiate track meets.

Gathright previously served as a graduate assistant coach at Kansas Wesleyan from 2014 to 2016, helping build the Coyotes' sprints and jumps program from the ground up. His responsibilities included coaching and recruiting student-athletes, administering practices, developing individualized training plans, and supporting all aspects of a successful cross country and track & field program.

A USATF Level II Certified Coach in the jumps, Gathright specializes in sprints, jumps, hurdles, relays, and recruiting.

As a student-athlete, Gathright was one of the most accomplished track & field competitors in NAIA history. He was inducted into the Baker University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2024 and won the 2013 NAIA National Championship in the 400 meters with a time of 46.62 seconds. He also finished as the national runner-up in the triple jump that same season. During his collegiate career, Gathright earned six NAIA All-America honors, won 18 Heart of America Athletic Conference championships, was named a four-time Heart MVP, a four-time Heart High Point Scorer, and helped lead Baker University to seven conference team championships.

Gathright earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Sports Management) from Baker University and a Master of Business Administration from Kansas Wesleyan University.

"I am excited to join the Ottawa family," said Gathright. "I want to thank Jay Kahnt, the hiring committee, the athletic department, and leadership for trusting and believing in me to lead this program. I look forward to continuing to grow a competitive program and mentor young men and women, preparing them for life on and off the cross country course and track. I also look forward to making a positive impact on campus and in the community."

Gathright will begin his duties immediately.
 

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