The Olivet Nazarene University athletics department is excited to announce the hiring of Kyle Rago, who will assume the role of head coach for the cross country and track & field (XC/TF) program. Coach Rago is taking over from the tenured leadership of Coach Mike McDowell.
Coach Rago attended Olivet and received his bachelor’s degree in social science education in 2007. As a student-athlete at ONU, Rago specialized in middle-distance running events and became a four-time NAIA national qualifier and set six school records. During his running career, Rago was a natural leader and was well respected by his teammates, earning him the role of team captain during his junior and senior seasons. Coach McDowell took notice of Rago’s leadership qualities and, coupled with his undeniable athletic achievements, he was offered the role of an assistant coach after graduating. After six years as an assistant coach with the Tigers, the door opened for Rago to take the position as the head track and cross-country coach at St. Xavier University.
Since the 2014-15 season, Rago has turned St. Xavier into a well-respected track and cross-country program within the CCAC. His efforts have given athletes the opportunity to claim NAIA all-American honors, as well as individual CCAC titles. Rago will bring his coaching prowess to ONU while building upon the recent success the Tigers have seen.
Regarding his return to ONU Rago said, “I’m very excited to be coming back to Olivet and want to thank Dr. Woody Webb, Mike Conway, and the rest of the hiring committee for giving me the opportunity to continue building on the excellent tradition and expectations that Coach McDowell set for the XC/TF program.” He continued, “I look forward to this opportunity and I am excited to get started!”
ONU Athletic Director Mike Conway, is also excited for Rago to join his coaching staff. He said, “Bringing Kyle Rago back to ONU has been a team effort by so many people here at Olivet. We could not be more happy and proud for Kyle’s return to campus as our head coach.”
ONU is excited to have Coach Rago add to an outstanding and committed coach staff. His character and experience will add to the rich atmosphere of ONU athletics, and he will surely add value to a group of talented student-athletes who are anxious to get back on campus and get their season underway.
For the team rosters, fall schedules and more news and information regarding ONU Athletics, visit www.onutigers.com.
Republished 7/24/2020
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