As an athlete, Ian Hankins was the second-fastest 10k runner in school history. Now, you can still find him on the track — but this time, he’s wearing a stopwatch around his neck.

Name: Ian Hankins

Current Position: Head Men’s Cross Country/Track & Field Coach– The Catholic University of America (NCAA DIII)

Past Positions: Head Cross Country Coach- Potomac State (WV)

Assistant XC/Track- Montgomery College (MD)

Assistant XC/Track- Baker University (KS)

Assistant XC/Track- St. John’s HS (DC)

Education: MA- Baker, BA- Muskingum, USATF Level 2 (Endurance), USATF Level 1

Top Coaching Achievements:

In cross country, Coach Hankins coached Jared Hallow to a national runner-up finish for Potomac State, with the team placing 4th at Nationals. For the women, Kiera Lyons earned All-Region honors and a school record.

On the track, Coach Hankins coached three to All-American honors; Lauren Jaqua in the 3k, Lauren Breithaupt in the 5k race walk, and Aaron Caldwell in his marathon debut. At Baker University, he had a relay team finish 10th at Nationals in a school record time.

1. How did you know you wanted to get into coaching?

I didn’t know I wanted to get into coaching, but knew I wanted to be involved in the running industry. My coaching career just took off thanks to great mentors and teams. I found my niche while working both in the business sector of the running industry while coaching.

2. How did you get connected with your first coaching gig?

I first reached out to my high school coach while working at the running store. I immediately found I had a great passion for coaching and applied to every GA position out there from DC to Alaska and landed in the Midwest at Baker University in Kansas.

3. What is it like to hold your position?

I’m truly blessed to be coaching in my hometown doing what I love. It’s very rewarding growing my relationships with my past and current athletes. It’s truly gratifying writing recommendations for grad school, Rhodes scholarships, and jobs, and then seeing the success of my athletes post graduation.

Coaching is a very small portion in what I do. My main duties are administrative. I focus on relationships with past, current and future athletes. I love every second of my job.

4. What is one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring coaches?

Get your start at the HS Level, then work your way up the ladder. Volunteer, GA, Assistant, Head Coach. Be a lifelong learner and get your certifications. Network and go to the convention!