Hope College

Kevin Cole '88 guided the fortunes of Hope College men's and women's track and field from 2006-2025 before stepping down to teach and mentor students through his role as a full-time member of the college's kinesiology faculty. 

Cole coached 85 MIAA champions in men's track and field, 13 NCAA Division III All-American performers and two MIAA outdoor team champions.

The 2012 season marked a historic point in Hope track and field when both the men's and women's teams captured the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association in the same year. The Flying Dutchmen were also MIAA co-champions in 2011.

A 1988 Hope graduate, Cole taught at Adrian College before returning to Hope, chairing the department of exercise science and physical education. Prior to joining the Adrian faculty in 1998, he taught and coached track and field at Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa. He holds a master of science degree in physical education from Texas Christian University and a Ph.D. in human bioenergetics from Ball State University.

Cole was a four-time All-MIAA athlete, twice in both cross country and track. He was a two-time MIAA champion in the 800-meter run, setting Hope and conference records in the event. He was co-captain of the cross country and track & field teams as a senior.