Kyle Abney Named Next Head Coach for MVNU Track & Field

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio. – Mount Vernon Nazarene University Athletics is excited to announce Kyle Abney as the third head coach of the MVNU Men's and Women's Track and Field program since its revival in 2015.

"We are excited to have Kyle join our team at MVNU," said Director of Athletics, Chip Wilson. "He came highly recommended, and he impressed us in the interview process with his knowledge and plans for leading a college track program, but more importantly, his personal faith. He has a heart for impacting the lives of young men and women for Christ and using Athletics as a platform to do so. Our MVNU track program has a great culture, and we look forward to him building on that."

Abney joins MVNU after nine years at Indiana Wesleyan University where he was the assistant track and field coach and a strength and conditioning coach for the University. Abney was no stranger to success during his time as the throws coach for the Wildcats. Abney developed over 30 national qualifiers, eight NAIA All-Americans, and two different National Champions who won three National Titles.

"I am honored and thrilled to step into the position of Men's and Women's Head Track and Field coach at MVNU. Walking alongside these young men and women during this chapter of their lives is something that holds precious opportunities for discipleship and development," said Abney. "Yes, we will pursue excellence in all forms but the truth is, above all else, we will pursue Jesus Christ and what He has for this team and the culture we produce. I want to especially thank Ellis Gallion, the previous head coach, for the ground he has already plowed toward this very same cause. I look forward to picking up my plow and digging into already softened soil. Thank you, Chip Wilson, and all those who were involved in the hiring process, for allowing me the opportunity to continue the growth and development of this track and field program."

In addition to coaching, Abney and his wife Kyla are youth pastors with the Bridge of Faith church. The Abneys have three daughters; Eliyanah (age 7), Claire (age 4), and Madelyn (2 weeks).

Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students, and working adults. With a 327-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education both in-seat and online to nearly 2,000 students from 25 states and 11 foreign countries.