University of Central Arkansas Athletics

Alma Mater: BS - University of Central Arkansas 1993 – Math/Computer Science

MA - University of Central Arkansas 2004 - Mathematics

Experience: 13 years (13th Season at UCA)

History: A native of Springfield, Arkansas John was a three-year letterman for Central Arkansas’s cross country and track teams. In 1992, Jones was named the NAIA District 17 Outstanding Senior Scholar-Athlete for Track and Field. John returned to Central Arkansas in the fall of 2003 when the University added a Men’s Cross Country program to their current Women’s program. He was instrumental in the program‘s addition of track and the transition from NCAA DII to NCAA DI. His primary coaching area has been the Women’s Distance Events.
   Jones and his wife Crystal have three children, Jimmy, Rebecca and Jordan.

Philosophy: Respect, balance and responsibility are the three tenants of my coaching philosophy. As a coach you must respect yourself, family, competition, administration, officials, parents and the student-athletes themselves. When an environment of respect is created and fostered, it builds upon itself. All members of the program begin to address and work with each other in a courteous and professional manner striving for mutual success. Improving an athlete’s performance is an important part of a program but I am also focused on the athletes establishing an important balance within their lives. Achieving team goals is a by- product of team chemistry.
   As a coach it is my responsibility to develop the student- athlete. The student-athletes are responsible to themselves and the team. I am responsible to the team and its need to be successful. The best interests of both are always a priority for me.

2016-2003: Accomplishments
• University’s Team GPA Award (Women’s XC 2013, 2014)
• 1 x NCAA DI National Cross Country Qualifier
• 2 x Outdoor NCAA Regional Qualifiers (3000mSC)
• 1 x NCAA Regional Cross Country top 10 team finishes
• 1 x NCAA Division II National Team Qualifier - 21 st 2005 Pomona, CA
• 2 x All-Region Cross Country Performers
• 1 x Academic All-American Cross Country
• 1 x Conference Cross Country Champion
• 1 x Indoor Conference Champions (5000 meters)
• 5 x Outdoor Conference Champions (10000m, 5000m, 3000mSC)
• 18 x All-Conference Track performers (10000m, 5000m, 3000mSC, 1500m, 800m, Distance Medley Relay)
• 8 x Cross Country All-Conference Performers
• 36 x School Record Holders
• 1 x University of Central Arkansas’ Student-Athlete of the year
• 5 x All-Academic Southland Conference Track and Field Athletes

Certifications:
• USATF Level I – Cowley CC; Arkansas City, Kansas
• USATF Level II – Loyola University Chicago, Illinois; Endurance Events