University of Mary Washington Director of Athletics Ken Tyler announced today the appointment of Adekunle Lawson as Head Coach of Men’s and Women’s Track & Field and Cross Country. Lawson replaces long-time coach Stan Soper, who is retiring this spring.
"I am excited to have the opportunity to lead the University of Mary Washington cross country and track and field teams", said Lawson. "I am looking forward to working with all the student-athletes and motivating them to achieve their full potential. Replacing the great Stan Soper will not be easy, but I have accepted the responsibility and am confident we are ready to be regular conference championship contenders." He continued, "I want to thank Capital University for allowing me to lead its program and wish them good luck this upcoming season. It's a great day to be an Eagle!"
Lawson comes to UMW from Capital University in Columbus, OH, where he has served as Director of Track & Field and Cross Country since 2011. Prior to Capital, Lawson had stints as an assistant track and field coach at Ohio University and the University of Richmond.
Lawson’s unique background includes work as a counterintellingence agent in the US Army, a staff accountant, and as a strength and conditioning coach for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago Cubs. He earned two degrees from Lynchburg College, where he was a two-time conference champion in the discus, and holds a master’s degree in coaching education from Ohio University. Throughout his coaching career, Lawson has mentored multiple conference champions, NCAA qualifiers, and All-Americans.
“We are pleased to welcome Kunle to UMW”, stated Tyler. “He brings a unique skill set that I know will bring positive results to our student-athletes. Kunle emerged from a very deep candidate pool as a strong leader who is extremely professional and passionate about the sport of track and cross country. I have no doubt that Kunle will contribute greatly to our program , the athletic department, and the University. I look forward to working with him!”