At Long Last, ONU Announces 'New' Head Coach

Less than a week out from the start of cross country camp, the Ohio Northern Athletic Department officially announced today that it will be former Centre Assistant Coach Ryan New who will take over the reigns for the Polar Bear harriers this fall.

New will inherit what is without a doubt the most talented Ohio Northern cross country team in the history of the program, fresh off a 17th place finish at Nationals in '07--a team that was at one time ranked within the top 10 nationally.

Expectations are very, very high at Northern this season, and for good reason.

Full story via ONUSports.com:

ADA — Ryan New has been named head coach for both the Cross Country and Track & Field programs at Ohio Northern.

New comes to Northern after spending the past three years as an assistant coach at Centre (Ky.) and running for the program from 2001-2004.

The 2004 graduate earned his dual degree in classical studies and history from Centre.

New was a sprinter for the Colonels, competing in the 100-meter, 200-meter and 400-meter dashes as well as the 4x100-meter and 4x400-meter relays.

At the end of his career, New held or shared seven school records in track.

New was named Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference Runner of the Year and Centre Athlete of the Year as a senior in 2004 while running an NCAA Provisional time of 48.33 in the 400-meter dash.

“I am very excited about the chance to come to Ohio Northern,” said New. “This does not necessarily seem like a job but rather a great opportunity that has been given to me.”

After completing his undergraduate work, New earned his master’s degree in history from Eastern Kentucky.

New resides in Ada with his wife, Andrea.