Carson-Newman Track and Field head coach Kieran Showler-Davis has announced that former C-N high jumper Sam Cleek is returning to Mossy Creek to become the program's jumps coach on August 28, 2024.

Cleek will work with Carson-Newman's high jumpers, pole vaulters, and multi-eventers.

Cleek jumped for the Eagles in 2021, placing in the top ten in every event he competed in during the outdoor season, highlighted by a 2.00-meter jump at the Montreat Classic on May 7. He also attempted pole vault at the SAC outdoor track and field championships, placing fourth, clearing 4.30 meters.

"I'm really excited to have Sam Cleek back here at Carson-Newman," Showler-Davis said. "I'm excited about the knowledge and hunger he displays, and I know the attributes he possesses as a coach will put our athletes in a great position to be successful."

His coaching experience comes from serving as the jumps coach at Hardin Valley Academy in Knoxville this spring. While serving as the jumps coach at C-N, Cleek will also serve in the same role at Knoxville Youth Academy, where he plays a pivotal role in not only coaching young athletes but also setting up and running large events such as the Tennessee Indoor State Championships and AAU Outdoor District and Regional meets.

Cleek's roots are in Eastern Tennessee. He was an All-State track and field competitor at Dobyns-Bennett High School and won the Tennessee State Indoor Championship for high jump.