As previously reported on KNIA/KRLS, the Central College track and field and cross country programs recently welcomed two new members to the coaching staff, as Jim Fuller and his wife Brenda came to Pella from Division II Northern State University of South Dakota. Jim will fill an associate head coaching role left by the departure of Guy Mosher, while Brenda will serve as an assistant that primarily works with the throwers during the indoor and outdoor track and field seasons.

In an interview featured on Monday night’s Central College Radio Coaches’ Corner, Dutch head coach Joe Dunham said the addition of the Fullers helps him stay in better contact with his athletes.

“One of the biggest benefits to having a large coaching staff is – with my coaching style – I definitely sit back and let the coaches do their jobs. I’m certainly not a micromanager, or a guy that hovers over their shoulder to make sure they’re doing everything they need to be doing. I trust them,” said Dunham. “It just makes my job a lot easier. I love being a part of each and every one of my athletes’ [success] and being able to see them improve and get better. I love the fact that we can provide them with that individual attention.”

Dunham says he’s extremely fortunate to have the support of the college in growing his coaching staff to ten members – and could add another this fall. While Central’s track and field athletes continue their offseason workouts, the Dutch cross country squads will soon be on the course. They host the Central Dutch Invitational in Pella on September 1st.