Red Wolves Add Assistant for Cross Country and Track
RICHMOND, Ind. - The Indiana University East cross country and track programs have added Uriah Aili as an assistant coach for the upcoming seasons.
Aili earned his Bachelor of Science in Sport Management with a minor in Coaching from the University of Wisconsin–Parkside before completing his Master of Business Administration at Queens University of Charlotte.
"Coaching at IU East is an opportunity to return to my roots in collegiate athletics," Aili said. "Cross country head coach Cam Tiberg recruited me out of high school and was the first coach to truly believe in me as an athlete."
"As I worked my way through the NAIA, NCAA Division II, and NCAA Division I levels, I gained experiences that shaped me both as a runner and as a person," Aili added.
Aili enjoyed a decorated running career beginning in high school, where he won four Michigan High School state championships, including one in cross country and three in track and field. During his senior season, he set state records in the 800-meter, 1,600-meter, and 3,200-meter races on the same day. Collegiately, he broke a 50-year-old University of Wisconsin–Parkside school record in the mile with a time of 4:07 before concluding his collegiate career at Queens University, competing at the NCAA Division I level while earning his MBA. He currently continues his competitive running career as an athlete ambassador for UltraK, pursuing his goal of breaking the four-minute mile.
"I'm excited to bring those experiences to IU East and give back the same support that helped me fall in love with the sport," Aili said. "Coaching is a true privilege. I look forward to mentoring, motivating, and helping each student-athlete pursue their individual goals. I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn under one of the nation's most respected coaching staffs, while contributing to the continued success of one of the premier NAIA programs in the country."