The University of St. Thomas is thrilled to welcome Kendra (Chambers) Coleman as the newest assistant coach for the men's and women's track and field teams. A Texas native, Kendra's athletic accomplishments speak volumes, making her a valuable addition to the coaching staff.

Coach Coleman states, "I am extremely grateful and excited to join the University of St. Thomas staff. As a former collegiate and professional athlete, it's always been a dream of mine to coach the next generation of track and field athletes. The student-athletes here at St. Thomas are absolutely amazing. They work hard, and they trust the coaching staff. I've enjoyed working with the team so far and I am excited for the competition season we have ahead! Go Celts!"

Coleman's Background

Kendra's track career began in high school, where she won the Texas UIL State Championship in the 400-meter dash. She attended the University of Texas at Austin, where she became an 8-time All-American and a 4-time Big 12 Champion. After college, Kendra pursued a professional career as a 400 and 800-meter runner, with times of 400 PR 52.72  & 800 PR 2:00.76. Coleman has competed globally and qualified for the U.S. National Championships nearly every year from 2015 to 2024. She also made it to the semifinals of the 800 meters at the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2016 and 2024. Notably, she represented Team USA in the 2016 World Indoor Championships and the 2017 World Relays.

Beyond her professional achievements, Kendra holds an undergraduate degree in Corporate Communications and a Master of Education in Sports Management at Northcentral University in 2018. She has extensive coaching experience, having worked with athletes at the high school level. As a coach at major universities like the University of Texas at Austin, Prairie View A&M, and Texas A&M, she is passionate about empowering women in sports and active in her community through Athletes for Hope. She serves as Director of Athlete Services on the USATF Athletes Commission.

UST Head Coach Jarrick Wright expressed his excitement about Kendra's addition to the staff, stating, "It's an honor to have a coach with such immaculate accolades joining us. Her experience as an athlete and a coach will be invaluable in guiding our team to new heights."

Cheer on the Celts as they compete for the Owen Hewett Invitational on Jan 17th in Norman, Oklahoma.