The Western Kentucky University Athletics Department is thrilled to announce the hiring of Lee Wood as the new cross country head coach and distance coach for track and field. Wood comes to The Hill from Drury University, where he served as the head coach for both men’s and women’s cross country and track and field since 2021.
“Coach Wood is a proven recruiter and dynamic coach from the 800 to the 10k,” said WKU Director of Cross Country/Track & Field Brent Chumbley. “He brings great excitement and energy that will elevate our distance group. I expect to see an immediate impact. I want to welcome Coach Wood and his family to The Hill!”
Wood expressed his excitement about joining the WKU program, stating, “I’m super excited to have this opportunity to come in and to lead this program to new heights. I’m a very passionate coach that’s ready to challenge the athletes. I’m ready to hit the ground running to get this program to a very high level!”
A Proven Track Record of Success
Wood arrives at WKU with a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. Before taking over at Drury, he enjoyed a successful stint as an assistant coach at NCAA Division II powerhouse Western Colorado University. During his time there, he helped guide the Mountaineers to numerous podium finishes at both the national and conference levels. As an assistant, he was instrumental in coaching over 25 All-Americans, several national champions, and the national champion DMR team in 2018.
Transforming Drury’s Program
Wood’s impact on the Drury program was undeniable. He quickly changed the team’s culture and led the athletes to over 70 school records. Under his leadership, both the men’s and women’s teams achieved their highest finishes in conference history in 2023 – the women as runners-up and the men finishing third.
Wood also has a strong track record of developing individual talent. While at Drury, he coached three All-Americans: Claire McCune (Cross Country), Katie McCune (800 indoor and outdoor), and Bradley Weimer (Cross Country). Weimer also won the conference championship in cross country in 2022 and qualified for nationals.
A Bright Future for WKU Distance Running
With the addition of Coach Wood, the future of WKU distance running looks incredibly bright. His experience, passion, and proven track record of success make him the ideal leader to elevate the program to new heights. The Hilltopper faithful can expect to see exciting times ahead for WKU cross country and track and field.
Additional Information
- Start Date: Effective immediately
- Previous Coaching Experience:
- Drury University (Head Coach, 2021-2023)
- Western Colorado University (Assistant Coach, 2018-2021)
- Heritage High School (Head Coach, 2008-2012)
- Rogers High School (Head Coach, 2000-2008)
We are thrilled to welcome Coach Wood to the WKU family and wish him all the best in his new role. Go Tops!
