WC Missouri News

University of Central Missouri Athletics has announced the appointment of Collin Nurenberg as the new head coach for Mules & Jennies Cross Country and assistant track & field coach. The announcement was made on Wednesday, July 9.

"We are very excited to add Collin to the UCM family. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in both cross country and distance running events," said Lori Hopkins, UCM Associate Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics and Senior Woman Administrator. "His addition will help elevate our programs to a national-contending level."

Nurenberg is taking on this role after three seasons at Truman State University in Kirksville, Mo., where his teams achieved 23 All-Conference finishes, including two individual Great Lakes Valley Conference champions and one national qualifier.

"We are ecstatic to welcome Collin into our Mules and Jennies family," said Kevin Paterson, UCM head track & field coach. "I've had a front-row seat to Coach's career, and the growth and accomplishments have been incredible. His ability to create the right environment to get the very best out of his athletes is something I know he will bring to our program."

Before his tenure at Truman State University, Nurenberg served as an assistant coach at Northwood University in Midland, Mich., where he contributed to 11 provisional marks during the 2022 season. His coaching staff was recognized as the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Men's Coaching Staff of the Year.

Earlier in his career, Nurenberg worked at Wayne State University in Detroit after earning his degree in exercise science from Saginaw Valley State University. He was a five-time President's List selection with a perfect GPA over three years.

"First, I would like to thank [UCM Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics] Matt Howdeshell and Lori Hopkins for this opportunity," Nurenberg stated. "I'm excited for the opportunity to work with Coach Paterson... This athletic department has a long legacy of success, and I can't wait to be a part of the next chapter."

Nurenberg holds certifications from USA Track & Field as well as technical and endurance specialist credentials from the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association.