Head Cross Country Coach

Bio

Williston State College is proud to welcome Tyrel Ackman as the new head coach for the Tetons Cross Country program.

Originally from Viroqua, Wisconsin, Ackman moved to Williston, North Dakota, during middle school and high school, where he competed for the Williston Coyotes. His high school career was highlighted by a North Dakota State Championship in 2018 and three state runner-up finishes (2016, 2017, 2019).

After graduating, Ackman attended Williston State College for two semesters before transferring to Dickinson State University to pursue a double degree in Physical Education and Health, along with a minor in Coaching. As a member of the Blue Hawks Cross Country and Track & Field teams, he enjoyed a standout career, highlighted by winning the 2023 North Star Athletic Association Cross Country Championship and earning an automatic bid to the NAIA National Championships. Ackman was also recognized as a two-time Champion of Character Award recipient (2022, 2023) for his leadership, sportsmanship, and community involvement.

He graduated from DSU in December 2024 and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in administration and athletic leadership while working as a Physical Education and Health teacher at Williston High School.

Ackman’s competitive running career spans a wide range of distances, from the 400m to the marathon. His personal bests include:

• High School: 400m – 59.7; 800m – 2:17; Mile – 4:59.74; 2 Mile – 10:59; 5K – 17:28
• College: 800m – 2:19; 1500m – 4:44; 1600m – 5:13; 3K – 10:16; 5K – 17:28; 6K – 20:54; 8K – 29:06; 10K – 37:37; Half Marathon – 1:22:39
• Other: Half Marathon – 1:19:22; Marathon – 3:29:49

With deep local roots, collegiate championship experience, and a passion for developing student-athletes, Ackman is poised to guide the Tetons into a successful new era of cross-country competition.