Aug. 22, 2001

Alex Smolka has been named Florida Atlantic University's men's and women's head cross country coach, announced Tom Cargill, FAU's Athletics Director.

"Alex has been with FAU athletics since 1992," said Cargill. "His knowledge of the program will help make the transition from administration to coaching much easier."

Smolka came to FAU as a consultant. His love of sports and caring for the success of each student-athlete was quickly apparent. As Smolka has nurtured and watched the student-athletes and the athletics department develop, so has his position within the University. He currently is responsible for the academic welfare for cross country, women's track and tennis as well as his coaching responsibilities.

His knowledge of the history of cross country has enabled him to develop a staff very quickly for the season which opens September 1 at Palm Beach Atlantic. Smolka has named Matt Corwin as the assistant men's cross country coach and Jennifer Hanley as the women's assistant coach.

"I worked with the FAU cross country coach in 1992-94 as an assistant coach," said Smolka. "The desire to coach has never left, it was put on hold while I furthered my education and while I helped to develop an academic program at FAU. With that in place, I can now split time in two areas that I enjoy. My upcoming experience is only brightened by the opportunity to work with Matt and Jennifer."

Smolka holds a bachelor of arts degree in history from Hampshire College (`88), a master's of science degree in business and sport management from Northeastern University (`92), and a master's of arts degree in history from FAU (`96). He is currently working on a doctorate in comparative studies at FAU. Smolka will also be participating in the 2002 Maccabbiah Games.

Corwin ran two seasons for FAU (`97-`98) and has worked as the program's assistant since that time. Hanley ran cross country and track for Jacksonville University (`95-`98) and served as Troy State's assistant coach in 2000.