New York, N.Y. – Eric Schrick has been named the interim head men's and women's cross country coach, Deputy Director of Athletics Cat Alves announced.

"I am overjoyed by the opportunity to coach the John Jay Cross Country Bloodhounds," said Schrick. "I have dedicated my life to running and mastering the science behind it. I look forward to training our athletes physically and mentally and engaging with the entire student body, faculty, and staff at John Jay!"

Schrick comes to the Upper West Side after serving as the volunteer assistant coach for the pole vault women's track and field team at St. John's University. There, he coached the indoor and outdoor school record holder in the pole vault. In addition, he served as the Red Storm's head men's and women's cross country and track club for two seasons. Schrick coached nine All-Americans, including two national champions and a national record. 

Prior to his tenure at St. John's, Schrick worked as the varsity boys and girls indoor and outdoor track at Far Rockaway High School. He trained 21 nationally-ranked runners and every record at the high school is held by an athlete that has been coached by Schrick, along with the long jump record at the NYC Mayors Cup.

"I am thrilled to welcome coach Eric Schrick to the Bloodhounds team," stated Alves. "His diverse and broad-based coaching experience in and outside of New York City and across multiple divisions gives him the necessary background to hit the ground running. Moreover, his high energy, commitment, and focus on the student experience aligns with our values as an institution."

Schrick holds many certifications including USATF Cross Country Specialist Certification, USATF Sport Specific Strength and Power, USATF Level Three Certification in Endurance, and World Athletics Level Five Certification in Endurance. 

He received an athletic scholarship to DI University of Arkansas where he was part of five National Championship teams. Schrick then joined St. John's and earned a clean sweep of Metropolitan Championships in cross country and both indoor and outdoor track and field.

The Bloodhounds are also excited to announce that long-time assistant coaches Jessie Contreras and Jesse Cheema will join Schrick's coaching staff. Their valuable expertise and knowledge of the program will contribute to the 2021 men's & women's cross country campaign.