JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. – Former South Atlantic Conference Athlete of the Year Kristofer Potts-Howard has returned to Carson-Newman as a graduate assistant Director of Track & Field and Cross Country David Needs announced, Thursday.

"One of the reasons we brought Kris back was because not only was he an All-American and someone who matured and developed as an athlete, but because he is a very versatile person," Needs said.  "We use the expression that he is a 'tracky.' He doesn't just like his events, but all events and is willing to learn. He also has a background in graphic design and has a lot of passions that are a great addition to our staff more than just coaching."

Potts-Howard made his mark his sophomore year at Carson-Newman. The Tullahoma, Tenn. native was named SAC Field Athlete of the Week twice and competed in the long jump and triple jump at the 2017 NCAA Division II Outdoor Track & Field Championships.

 "As an athlete, Kris was a guy that came in and already had talent but was willing to work hard to develop that talent," Needs said. "When you have a guy like that who can share that same mode with your athletes and teach them your experiences, that's a great person to bring in."

In his senior season, Potts-Howard was named the South Atlantic Conference Athlete of the year after collecting top-four finishes in three different events. He holds a school record as a member of the 4x400 team with a time of 3:24.73, and the school record of 7.26 meters in the long jump. Potts-Howard was also a USTFCCA All-Academic winner and a USTFCCA All-Region Selection in long jump.

"It's really a blessing, that's all I can really say," Potts-Howard said. "Being on the opposite side of the spectrum has really changed the way I view track & field. Not only am I growing as a person, but as a coach, and now I'm helping others grow, which is really special to me."

Potts-Howard recognized the challenges of entering the coaching world and going back to school during the COVID-19 pandemic but is excited for the future of the Eagles track and field program.

"With situations like this, you can only take it one day at a time," Potts-Howard said. "I'm excited to see what the future holds for our program."