WELLAND, Ont. - The Niagara College Department of Athletics and Recreation is pleased to announce the addition of cross country to its intercollegiate program beginning in September, 2014. The announcement coincides with the selection of Adam Upshaw as the Knights first cross county head coach.

"Cross country is a natural fit for our intercollegiate program," said Niagara athletic director Matthew Davies. "Expanding our program and providing opportunities for students to experience intercollegiate competition at the provincial and national level is something that we are constantly striving towards at Niagara College. We are excited to add new members to the Knights' family beginning this fall."

Upshaw brings the Knights a unique blend of cross country coaching, fitness training and assessment, and an in-depth knowledge of sport nutrition.

"Adam was the ideal choice to lead our new program," said Ray Sarkis, Niagara's intercollegiate coordinator. "His coaching experience and knowledge of training and nutrition made him the perfect candidate for this position."

Upshaw most recently served as an assistant coach with the Humber Hawks cross country team. In addition to his duties with the cross country team, the Oakville, Ont., native also served as a nutritionist with the Humber softball, soccer, and rugby teams. Upshaw also possesses a bachelor of kinesiology and master of health science degrees from York University, and is completing a PhD in sports mutrition and exercise metabolism from Western University.

"It's an absolute honour and privilege to lead the Niagara College cross country team into their inaugural season," said Upshaw. "We are looking to build a strong and successful program based on a passion for the sport, support of teammates, and respect for the program."

"Coach Upshaw has the knowledge and skills needed to create a high performance culture around cross country in the Niagara region," added Davies. "We feel his skill set will make him a valuable addition to our intercollegiate program."

Student interest in the Niagara College cross country program has been strong, and Coach Upshaw has been active in the recruitment of student-athletes over the summer months.

The Knights will open the 2014 season on Thursday, Sept. 4 at 5:30 p.m. when the team hosts a meeting for all of those interested in trying out. Formal tryouts will commence on Sept. 9.

Source: Niagara College