(Story courtesy of the University of Ozarks Athletics Communications)
CLARKSVILLE, Ark. – University of the Ozarks has announced Cash Kunkel, winner of multiple conference championships at NCAA Division I Arkansas State University, as the interim women’s and men’s head cross country and track coach.
Kunkel starred at ASU where he guided the cross-country program to a 2022 Sun Belt Conference championship and a 2023 runner-up finish. He was named All-Conference in both cross country and track during his collegiate running career. He served as a volunteer track and field coach at ASU during the 2024-2025 season.
“Cash was an ultra-successful runner at the NCAA Division I level and it will be exciting to see him use his knowledge and experience to help our student-athletes.,” said Dr. Sergio Molina, Director of Athletics. “He understands what it takes to be successful both in competition and the classroom. I am confident in his ability to lead our programs to continued success.”
Kunkel, a native of Brenham, Texas, won the 2024 SBC indoor track 3000-meter and the 2024 SBC outdoor steeplechase title while helping the program to back-to-back indoor conference championships.
“I am honored to be the head cross country and track coach at University of the Ozarks,” said Kunkel. “Running has always been a passion of mine, and I’m incredibly excited for the opportunity to lead, support, and grow this team both on and off the course. I look forward to building a strong culture, developing athletes of character and endurance, and representing University of the Ozarks with pride. I can’t wait for the season ahead.”
He received his bachelor’s degree in management information systems (cum laude) from University of Incarnate Word in 2021 and a master’s degree in sports administration (cum laude) from ASU in 2024.
