Foster named head cross country coach

Ryan Foster, former assistant cross country and track coach at Penn State, will take over the Edinboro University cross country program, starting in the fall 2016 season. The hiring was announced on June 7. He will also be the assistant track and field coach, working with head track coach Anne Carlson. 

Director of Athletics Bruce Baumgartner told gofightingscots.com, Foster " brings an outstanding background to our staff." He continued, "We are committed to making sure the Edinboro cross country program remains among the best in the PSAC and Division II. We believe Ryan possesses the qualities both athletically and academically to maintain that tradition."

In an email directed to alumni, Foster writes:

The Edinboro cross country program has a long and proud tradition of success, and I am looking forward to working to continue that tradition. The achievements that Coach Watts influenced in his time at Edinboro and the achievements of the program since then have set a very high bar to strive for. I will work tirelessly with the young men and women of this program to support them to achieve academically and athletically during their time on campus.

Throughout the interview process and during my visit to campus, the support that this program has from the alumni and the Edinboro community stood out to me. Edinboro cross country has a lot of supporters both near and far, and that is something very valuable. I am excited to continue to build and strengthen the ties between the University, the community, and the alumni.

My door is open to all supporters of the Edinboro cross country and track & field programs. I look forward to getting to know many of you in the years to come.

Foster has registered several noteworthy times in his running career, such as 1:46:78 in the 800 and a 3:58:49 mark in the mile. He is a native of Hobart, Tasmania in Australia. He was the first Tasmanian to break the four minute mile barrier indoors. 

Rick Hammer, previous head cross country coach, did not have his contract renewed. He joined the team in August 2013. 

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