ATHENS, Georgia. – The University of Georgia track and field program kicks off next season with a new leader, fresh out of a 2021 NCAA National Outdoor Championship.

The university’s athletic director has appointed Caryl Smith Gilbert Georgia’s Director of Men’s and Women’s Track and Field.

Smith Gilbert recently led the University of Southern California women to the 2021 NCAA National Outdoor Championship and the men to a top-5. The USC women’s team has won two national championships in the last three championship appearances.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the University of Georgia cross country and track program,” said Smith Gilbert. “Georgia combines elite athletics and academics with exceptional leadership, at a premier track and field conference. When I spoke to Josh [Brooks]I was immediately impressed with his vision and passion for Georgia Athletics and track and field. I thank President Morehead and Josh for leading the way and opening doors for women and especially women of color. It is an honor to be the first female head coach of a men’s sport in Georgia. I firmly believe that we can continue to build on the strong UGA program. “

The UGA women’s track and field team finished third at the NCAA Championships this weekend while the men’s team finished eighth in Eugene, Ore.

“It’s a great day to be a Bulldog,” said Brooks. “I am delighted to welcome Caryl Smith Gilbert to the University of Georgia. She is a phenomenal coach, skilled motivator and strong leader who will improve our entire program. Caryl exudes an energy and passion that resonates with student-athletes, rookies and colleagues. At UGA, we aim to win championships in all sports, and she leads and coaches with the integrity, tenacity and tenacity that perfectly matches our mission. “

Smith Gilbert was a three-time All-American and Pac-10 champion sprinter at UCLA.

Hours earlier, the university announced it would part ways with longtime head coach Petros Kyprianou.

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