Colby Adds Chayse McCullough as First-Ever Associate Track & Field/Cross Country Coach

COLBY, Kan. - The Trojan Track & Field and Cross Country programs are taking a major step forward with the addition of former Trojan national champion runner Chayse McCullough as the program's first-ever Associate Track & Field/Cross Country Coach.

The newly-created full-time position marks a significant investment in the future of both programs and reflects Colby's continued commitment to building championship-level success both on the track and in the classroom.

A native of Plainville, Kansas, McCullough brings a unique blend of competitive experience, leadership, and passion for Colby Community College back to the program where his collegiate running career first began.

"I'm excited to have Chayse on board," said head coach Jason Davis. "He brings energy and passion to the staff. He's going to help elevate our program to new heights. I can't wait to get started."

McCullough was a member of Colby's historic 2022 NJCAA National Championship Cross Country team before continuing his collegiate career at the NCAA Division I level at the University of Missouri–Kansas City. He later transferred to Fort Hays State University, where he completed his bachelor's degree while competing for one of the premier NCAA Division II programs in the country.

During his time at Fort Hays State, McCullough earned three MIAA Academic Honor Roll selections, showcasing his commitment both athletically and academically.

"I am beyond excited to get the opportunity to give other Kansas kids the same opportunity Coach Brady Johnson gave Emily and I," McCullough said. "We would be nowhere near where we are today without Colby. Emily and I are excited to be back in the wonderful town of Colby to keep pursuing our dreams as well as assisting others to pursue theirs."

While this will be his first collegiate coaching role, McCullough has already developed strong leadership experience through years of mentoring and community involvement. He has volunteered as a coach and mentor with the Solomon Valley ARC, helping teach and support children with special needs and disabilities. He has also worked in education settings assisting students with special needs while continuing to pursue his passion for athletics and mentorship.

McCullough's addition also creates a unique connection within the Trojan family alongside his wife, Emily Diercks McCullough, another former Trojan standout who has become one of the top distance runners in the NCAA Division II ranks.

Emily is a two-time defending MIAA Cross Country Champion and earned NCAA Division II All-American honors in the 10,000 meters during the 2025 outdoor season after placing ninth nationally. She has qualified for two NCAA Division II National Championships, earned four All-MIAA honors, multiple All-Region accolades, and currently holds three school records at Fort Hays State.

Before her success at Fort Hays State, Emily starred at Colby where she captured the 2023 NJCAA Indoor National Championship in the 3,000 meters, further cementing her place among the top distance runners in program history. Like Chayse, Emily began her collegiate career at Colby, making the couple's return to the Trojan program even more meaningful.

The addition of McCullough gives Colby another young and energetic coach with firsthand experience competing at multiple collegiate levels while understanding the culture and expectations that have helped build the Trojans into a nationally competitive program.

"This is a huge moment for our programs," cross country head coach Mathew Scott added. "Creating this position allows us to better support our student-athletes and continue growing the championship standard we expect at Colby. Chayse is the perfect fit because he understands the work and the culture that comes with being a Trojan."

McCullough will work collaboratively with the Trojan coaching staff across both track & field and cross country operations, helping with training, recruiting, athlete development, and day-to-day program management as Colby continues building toward future regional and national success.