Gonzaga University made a big splash in hiring its first full-time coach in the history of its cross country program. Running guru Pat Tyson was today named the Bulldogs’ coach.

Tyson’s has a history of producing champions. He coached Spokane’s Mead High School to 12 team state cross country titles and nine individual championships. He also guided Shorecrest to two team titles.

In 2005, he was a volunteer coach at the University of Oregon, then he spent the 2006-07 school year at the University of Kentucky before becoming South Eugene (Ore.) High’s coach in January.

Here’s a link to the press release.