Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Valparaiso University head track and field coach Tyler Wingard has announced his resignation from the program because he has accepted a similar position at Christopher Newport University in Newport News, Va.

Â?I want to thank several people for the opportunity and the successes I have enjoyed here at Valparaiso -- Dr. Steinbrecher for giving me the opportunity to start my collegiate head coaching career six years ago; cross country coach Mike Straubel for his support as our program underwent its transformation; and the hundreds of student-athletes, parents, alumni, and coaches who have invested in building up the Valpo Track & Field program," Wingard said. Â?The continued support from Mark LaBarbera and the rest of the Athletics staff has been invaluable."

Â?It has been a great experience for me and I cherish the relationships I have developed with the athletics staff, the student-athletes, and the greater Valpo community. The opportunity I have at Christopher Newport University is one that fits well with my goals personally and as a coach and I feel well prepared after my experiences at Valparaiso and in the Mid-Continent Conference."

Â?We have a lot of outstanding talent and great people on the Crusader Track & Field team and I look forward to following their progress in the coming years. It is difficult to leave such a wonderful group behind, but I wish them all the best and have great confidence in their continued success."

While at the helm of the Brown and Gold for the past six seasons, Wingard's athletes broke 44 school records. He had 81 athletes earn All Mid-Continent Conference honors, including 13 individual conference titles and two champion relays. He coached the men's outdoor Mid-Con Athlete of the Year this past spring and also guided three Mid-Con Newcomers of the Year. Wingard also had seven athletes qualify for NCAA Regional competition.

Â?Valpo's track and field program has grown tremendously under Tyler's leadership the past 6 years," LaBarbera, Valparaiso's Director of Athletics said. Â?His passion for his sport and his team will be missed."