Indiana University Northwest Director of Athletics Ryan Shelton has announced the hiring of Nicole Hartford as interim head cross country coach for the men’s and women’s teams.
Hartford, who is no stranger to IUN, served as head coach for two seasons from 2017 until 2019. Under her tutelage, former RedHawk Angela Klukken earned a first team all-conference accolade and qualified for the NAIA National Championship meet.
Prior to her arrival at IUN, Hartford was the head women’s cross country coach at Purdue Northwest and an assistant at Purdue North Central. With the Pride, she guided Kylie Werner to a CCAC Freshman of the Year honor.
For the last six seasons, Hartford was the Chesterton High School assistant girls cross country coach and helped the team to a third place finish at the Indiana State Championship meet in 2021.
“We are excited to welcome Coach Hartford to IU Northwest and RedHawks Athletics,” Shelton said. “Nicole’s energy and enthusiasm for running and coaching, combined with her previous experience with our athletic program along with her connections within Northwest Indiana make her the ideal fit to lead our cross-country programs while we dedicate the necessary time in our search for our next permanent head coach. We’re thrilled to have her back on our team.”
Hartford begins her duties as interim head coach immediately.