Union Welcomes Jelks as New Head Cross Country, Track & Field Coach

BARBOURVILLE, Ky. – Chris Jelks has been handed the reins of the Union College cross country and track & field programs, Executive Director of Athletics Tim Curry announced Wednesday.

"Being able to promote within, it allowed us to provide immediate stability to our program," Curry said. "Chris has a wealth of experience and contacts within the world of track, and we are looking forward to his leadership of our program moving forward at Union College."

Jelks spent the 2020-21 season as the assistant coach for the Bulldog programs. He takes the helm after Jacob Carter recently left for another coaching position.

"I know that the sky is the limit for our cross country and track programs," Jelks said. There is plenty of room for growth, and I am grateful to Tim Curry and Sam Lee for trusting me to run the program."

Prior to coming to Union, Jelks served as the head coach of Taylor County (Ky.) High School from 2017-20. He is the founder, president, and head coach of Kentucky Elite Track Club, which has produced 128 championships, 30 national place finishers, four national champions, and assisted over 50 athletes to receive college scholarships. Jelks also served as vice president of the KTCCCA and helped organize annual track & field and cross country clinics for coaches in the state of Kentucky.

Jelks' mission is to help the Bulldogs find success in all walks of life.

"My goals are to be successful on the track and in the classroom," he said. "My motto is, 'Student first, athlete second.' I am looking forward to the season as are my athletes."

Union will open the cross country season at the Berea/Centre Cross Country Jamboree on Sept. 3.