(Story courtesy of Concordia University (Texas) Athletics Communication)
AUSTIN, Texas -- Concordia Texas Associate Vice President and Director of Athletics Ronda Seagraves has announced the hiring of Michael Tinsley as the Concordia men's and women's cross country and track & field coach. Tinsley served as an assistant coach for the Tornados last year, and brings a plethora of professional experience.
"I am excited to announce the hiring of Michael Tinsley as our new leader for the cross country and track programs. During the interview process it was very apparent that his love of the sports and the student-athletes will lend itself to continued success in both programs. His extensive competition experience at every level will surely impact our current and future athletes. His accomplishments on the Olympic level partnered with his successful training background will be a tremendous benefit for our sprinters and hurdlers." Said Seagraves. "He will be supported by our great staff of assistant coaches. Dave Sherrill will continue to specialize in the cross country and distance events, Jason Zahn will continue as out throws specialist and Russell Neuwirth will remain as out graduate assistant for both programs."
Tinsley was a collegiate student-athlete at Jackson State University where he obtained his B.S. in Criminal Justice in 2006. During his time at Jackson State, Tinsley became the first representative at JSU to win a national championship with his victory in the 400m hurdle.
Upon completion of his undergraduate program, Tinsley began his professional career in June of 2006. With years of hard work and dedication, Tinsley won back-to-back United States championships in the 400m hurdle. As a result, Tinsley was ranked the number one 400m hurdler in the world.
Sporting a patriotic background, he was also a two-time Olympian (2012 & 2016) as a representative for the United States in the 400m hurdle race. Tinsley would earn a silver medal in the 2012 Olympics in London. In 2013, Tinsley would claim another silver medal at the IAAF World Championships. He would then earn a 2014 IAAF Diamond League Championship.
Tinsley became a Park Ranger in the city of Round Rock in 2018, and was promoted to a senior Park Ranger in 2023. Inspired to give back to younger athletes, Tinsley became an assistant coach at Concordia University Texas & Concordia High School at the beginning of 2024. During the 2024 season with the Tornados, Tinsley primarily assisted with hurdlers and sprinters. He also developed and executed specialized training programs.
Upon the announcement of his hiring, Tinsley said, "I am thrilled to accept the head coach position for men's and women's cross country and track & field at Concordia University. I look forward to working with our talented student-athletes and dedicated staff as we strive for greatness both on and off the track. Together, we can achieve amazing things! Here's to an exciting season ahead!"
Tinsley's Personal Athletic Honors
- 2x Olympian USA Track and Field 2012, 2016
- 2006 NCAA Champion, 400m hurdles
- USATF 2013 Team Captain (USATF broke the record for most medals at a World Championship)
- 2012-13 US Champion, 400m hurdles
- 2012 Olympic Silver Medalist, 400m hurdles
- 2013 IAAF World Championships Silver Medalist, 400m hurdles
- 2014 Wanda Diamond League Champion, 400m hurdles
- Arkansas Track and Field Hall of Fame Inductee
- 14 Year Sponsorship with Team Adidas
- Athlete personal trainer
CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES
- CPR/First Aid Certification
- Texas ATV Certification
- Valid Class C Driver's License
- Valid CDL driver's license
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