Trailblazing Titles & Building Dynasties: Coach Katie Wise on Leading Marian University Track & Field to NAIA History

In Episode 352 of Airey Bros Radio, we sit down with Coach Katie Wise, Director of Track & Cross Country at Marian University, and the first woman in collegiate history to lead a men’s team to an NAIA Indoor National Championship. From her days as an NCAA D1 All-American sprinter to building a powerhouse at Marian, Coach Wise opens up about recruiting, faith-based leadership, coaching philosophy, and building a national title team.If you're a student-athlete, parent, coach, or recruiter, this episode is your blueprint for success at the NAIA level. 🎯


🔍 Topics Covered:

• [0:00] Why we spotlight NAIA, D2, D3, JUCO & under-the-radar programs
  
  
• [6:45] Coach Wise’s origin story: From Indiana State to Marian
  
  
• [12:20] Winning her first NAIA national title in her debut year as head coach
  
  
• [20:45] Recruiting philosophy & finding the right athletes for the culture
  
  
• [26:00] Balancing leadership, staff delegation, and coaching her sprinters
  
  
• [29:30] Building a roster of 140+ & casting a wide recruiting net
  
  
• [33:40] Facilities at Marian, training at Indianapolis Fairgrounds
  
  
• [36:00] Standout athletes to watch in the 2025 outdoor season
  
  
• [40:00] Faith and Marian’s Catholic identity in athletics
  
  
• [42:00] Coaching men vs. women: motivation, mentorship, and trust
  
  
• [45:00] Advice for young women coaches blazing their own path
  
  
• [48:00] How injury redirected her life toward elite coaching
  
  
• [52:00] Guilty pleasures, Thai food, hot chocolate, and MrBallen podcasts

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