JAMESTOWN, NY - Jamestown Community College (JCC) is excited to announce Darion Gregory as the new head coach of Jayhawk Men's and Women's Cross country.
"We're thrilled with the athletic and academic prowess that Darion (Gregory) is going to bring to not just JCC cross country but our athletic department as a whole," said JCC Athletic Director George Sisson. "He's a man that has excelled on a major stage in cross country as a former runner for St. Bonaventure," added Sisson. "Cross country has always been a big part of my life. I'm excited to continue that as a coach, especially on the collegiate side of the sport. I will bring some knowledge of training and workouts to the team that I'm excited for. I'm excited to get going," mentioned Gregory.
The Smethport, PA, native is familiar with JCC, growing up roughly an hour from Jamestown. He stayed close to home, going to St. Bonaventure, where he was an Atlantic 10 All-Academic member five times and broke five program records for the Bonnies.
"It was an easy decision to hire coach (Darion Gregory) once I saw what he achieved on the race course and in the classroom," said Sisson. "We expect him to hit the ground running," he added. Running is something that Darion has been doing all his life. He was a team manager for Smethport High School's cross country team dating back to his sixth-grade year. While at Smethport, he was a four-time state qualifier before becoming an accomplished Division One runner.
He knows it takes dedication to achieve at a high level but also understands the pressures of being a college athlete, so finding a balance is important to Coach Gregory. "We'll have a good time. It'll be fun. Competing collegiately is a good chance to meet like-minded individuals. We'll train hard and have a good time. We want to compete at a high level against the region and country. It's a great experience," he said.
The Jayhawks cross country season starts with a meet in Edinboro, PA, on Saturday, September 7th. That quick turnaround has Gregory chomping at the bit to get started. "I'm excited to meet the team and start training and practice. Get them prepared for the coming season. I want to build in numbers and times. I'd like to eventually see a full team start scoring and winning larger invitationals," he quipped.
Coach Gregory is also known back at St. Bonaventure and in his hometown for his contributions away from the athletic fields. He organized events benefiting St. Bonaventure veterans, Earth Day trash pickup, and volunteered at the Warming House and the Olean Children's Clothing Drive, and more.
If you would like more information on joining JCC cross country, please contact coach Darion Gregory at DarionGregory@mail.sunyjcc.edu.
