SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. - The California State University San Bernardino Department of Athletics is pleased to announce that former track & field and cross country assistant coach and student-athlete Nicole McDonald has been elevated to head coach of both programs.
McDonald came to Cal State San Bernardino as a cross country and track & field student-athlete in the fall of 2008 after a successful career at Cajon High School, right across the street from CSUSB's University District campus. As a Coyote, she captained her teams and served on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.
After graduating from Cal State San Bernardino in 2012 with a degree in kinesiology, McDonald returned to coach at Cajon until 2018, when she was brought back to CSUSB to be an assistant coach for the cross country and track & field teams, where she has been ever since.
"I have always admired former track & field and cross country coaches Tom Burleson and Lauren Podgaysky, as they have shown me what it takes to become a successful head coach," said McDonald. "I have learned so much working under Lauren and have been truly blessed with all that she has taught me as an assistant cross country and track & field coach. I want to thank her for taking me under her wing and trusting me to continue to build the program."
"I am thrilled to have Coach McDonald take over our women's track & field and cross country programs," said Director of Athletics Shareef Amer. "Since returning to CSUSB, she has been a tremendous asset to our department. As a former Coyote student-athlete, she brings a unique perspective into her role that is otherwise impossible to emulate. We are incredibly fortunate for the opportunity to promote one of Cal State San Bernardino's own into this role."
"Being named head coach has always been a dream of mine since I competed for CSUSB," McDonald continued. "This program has been a big part of my life for many years and I cannot wait to continue to elevate and guide these women to become the best versions of themselves academically and athletically. Once a Yote, forever a Yote."
McDonald will officially take over the role in July, and coach both teams when they begin competition in the fall.
#GoYotes
