Chris Solinsky, a celebrated figure in Wisconsin athletics, has been appointed as the Director of Track & Field and Cross Country at the University of Wisconsin. Solinsky, a native of Stevens Point, Wisconsin, brings over 13 years of coaching experience, including successful tenures at Oregon, Florida, and William & Mary. He most recently served as the Executive Director of the W Club at Wisconsin.
Marcus Sedberry, Wisconsin’s Interim Director of Athletics, expressed confidence in Solinsky’s ability to lead the program, citing his understanding of the Badger culture and his championship-caliber leadership. Solinsky’s coaching career includes significant achievements, such as helping Oregon claim multiple Big Ten cross country titles and the 2025 NCAA Women’s Indoor Track Championship.
Solinsky’s appointment follows the retirement of legendary coach Mick Byrne, who will conclude his career at the end of the 2026 outdoor track & field season. Byrne leaves behind a legacy as the winningest coach in Big Ten men’s cross country history.
In addition to Solinsky’s appointment, the Wisconsin football program has secured a verbal commitment from four-star cornerback Mekhi Williams. Williams, considered a significant recruit for coach Luke Fickell, chose Wisconsin over LSU and Nebraska. He is expected to sign a national letter of intent in December, bringing promising defensive skills to the team.
Solinsky’s Coaching Journey
Solinsky’s coaching journey began at William & Mary, where he spent three seasons, including one as head coach of the men’s cross country team. He also served as a volunteer assistant at the University of Portland during the final years of his professional running career.
At the University of Florida, Solinsky contributed to the Gators’ success with four SEC titles and five national championships. His influence was also felt at Oregon, where he played a pivotal role in individual and team successes, including Matthew Erickson’s 2025 NCAA Indoor Championship win in the 800 meters.
As a student-athlete at Wisconsin, Solinsky earned five NCAA championships and 14 All-American honors, contributing to the team’s national successes in cross country and indoor track.
Solinsky expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the program and acknowledged the support of his family, including his wife Amy, a former Badger track and field student-athlete, and their children Ayla, Archer, and Easton.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
