Head track coach Russ Rogers has touched the lives of hundreds of young men and women. For more than 30 years he’s pushed, prodded and cheered, spurring his student-athletes to greatness. Now he’s returning the favor for the woman who did the same for him.

On June 5, 2006 Rogers announced that his plans to retire from Ohio State effective September 30 in order to care for his mother. ”I need this time to spend with my mother,” Rogers said. “She is 87 and in need of assisted living. I’m an only child and this is something I need to do. She has always followed everything in the sport of track and field and has been my biggest fan.”

Russ Rogers came to Ohio State in 1988 after 10 years as head track coach for Fairleigh Dickinson University. During his tenure, which he calls one of the most exciting times of his life, Rogers produced 18 NCAA indoor and outdoor champions and more than 120 Big Ten title-holders. Rogers was named Big Ten Coach of the Year for 1992 and 1993 and national coach of the year in 1992.

“We appreciate the service he provided The Ohio State University and wish him and his mother the best,” said director of athletics Gene Smith. “He helped so many young people have a quality experience and we thank him.”

The athletics department announced that two head coaches will be hired to replace Rogers as the program will now have separate coach staffs for men and women. The move is designed to maximize recruitment and development opportunities. The search for both coaches is underway.