FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 8/24/98

CONTACT:
Robyn Florian
Assistant Director of Public Relations
Greenville College
(618) 664-2800, ext. 4536

GREENVILLE, IL— Acclaimed Cross-Country and Track Coach Brian Patton recently accepted a full-time position as Head Coach of both sports for Greenville College.

Patton, a 1984 graduate of Hillsboro High School and a 1988 graduate of Greenville College, has been at the helm of both squads for the past four years in a part-time capacity and has guided his teams to numerous championship finishes. The 1997-98 Cross-Country team earned top honors at Principia Invitational, Danville Invitational and St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference competitions, while team member Mark Theiss advanced to the NCAA Division III finals in Boston. In similar form, the 1997-98 Track team placed first in the Principia Invitational meet and participated in the NCCAA Nationals.

Prior to beginning his tenure at Greenville College, Patton coached in Hillsboro and Litchfield area schools. "I believe there are many athletes who could compete on the college level, but are ill-informed about such opportunities," states Patton. "I have set a goal for my staff and I to educate area track and cross-country athletes about the opportunities available in collegiate competition."

In an effort to build on the success of Patton's first four years, the college has expanded its commitment to the track program through the hiring of four assistant coaches for the upcoming year. Any athlete interested in cross-country or track should contact Coach Patton at the Greenville College Athletic Office (800-345-4440) for further information.

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