Eight-time NAIA national champion Lisa Voyles was announced as the Associate Head Track & Field Coach by Director of Athletics Dr. Erica Albertin, effective August 1, 2024. She will work closely with Rustin Nyce, the Director of Track and Field and Cross Country, and will also be the Assistant Coach for the cross country teams.
"I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Maple Leafs' success," said Voyles, who competed at Indiana Tech. The significant milestones I achieved as a recent NAIA student-athlete have shaped me as an athlete and a person. I have been equipped with valuable knowledge and skills that I am eager to bring to the team!"
Voyles won the 1000 meters at the NAIA Indoor Track & Field Championships from 2021-2024. She was the national champion in the indoor mile as well earlier this year and also has titles in the outdoor 800 meters (2022), the indoor distance medley relay (2022) and the outdoor 4x400-meter relay (2023). On July 15, she was named the 2024 NAIA Women’s Indoor Track & Field National Scholar Track Athlete of the Year by the USTFCCCA (U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association). She earned her degree in Exercise Science, focusing on Strength and Conditioning.
"Coach Voyles will assist with recruitment and support to continue building our strong cross country and track field teams," said Albertin. "She brings a perspective of student-athlete development and is a great addition to our team."
The Indiana Tech women's indoor track and field team has won four straight NAIA National Championships and the 2021 outdoor championship. Voyles holds ten Indiana Tech track and field school records - six in indoor and four in outdoor events. In all, she has been a four-time cross country All-American and nine-time track and field All-American.
Voyles brings a unique angle to the role, having competed against Goshen numerous times over her career. "I believe I can make an immediate impact by serving as a supportive mentor and guide for the student-athletes," she shared. "My goal is to enhance their athletic abilities and foster personal growth and development."
"Lisa is an outstanding athlete and wonderful person," said Indiana Tech Head Cross Country Coach Alex Kluchki. "She will work hard and make an immediate positive impact on the programs."
The first Goshen cross country meet of the 2024 season is August 30 at the Winrow Valparaiso Open. The men's and women's cross country teams are coming from their best seasons in program history. GC had All-Americans across nine events in the track and field seasons.
"Deciding to become a coach at Goshen College was something I prayed about a lot," Voyles said. "I felt a peace about this decision, and I believe this is where God has led me to be. I admire Goshen College's values, goals, and the caring atmosphere it offers and am excited to be a part of it and contribute!"
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