Wilson Name Inaugural
Cross Country Coach

Jenny Wilson to Lead Kraken Cross Country

Carteret  prepares for its first NJCAA women’s cross country season in Fall 2026.

Morehead City, N.C. (February 20, 2026) – Carteret Community College proudly announces Jenny Wilson as the inaugural Head Coach of the Kraken Women’s Cross Country program, set to begin NJCAA competition in Fall 2026. Wilson joins Kraken Athletics with an extensive background in endurance training, athlete development, and sports-medicine support, positioning the program for a strong and sustainable launch.

“We are delighted that Coach Jenny Wilson is joining us to lead Carteret’s inaugural women’s cross-country team,” said Carteret President Dr. Tracy Mancini. “Her experience as a runner and physical therapy assistant gives her exceptional insight into the conditioning, wellness, and injury-prevention needs of our student-athletes, ensuring they can develop and thrive in a supportive and high-performance environment.”

As Carteret prepared to launch its first women’s cross country program, Wilson quickly emerged as the ideal leader. Athletics Director Scott Lane emphasized the unique combination of experience and character she brings to the role.

“Jenny brings the experience, mindset, and character we want leading this program,” Lane said. “Her coaching background, lifelong commitment to distance running, and expertise as a physical therapist assistant give her a unique ability to develop student-athletes the right way. Just as important, her own path through the community college system makes her a powerful role model for the young women who will represent Kraken Cross Country.”

A seasoned distance specialist, Wilson has coached cross country and distance track at the high school level and holds USA Track & Field (USATF) certification specializing in cross country. She is also a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), bringing valuable sports-medicine insight to athlete training and development. This integrated blend of coaching expertise and wellness knowledge provides Carteret with a strong foundation for building a competitive, athlete-centered program from day one.

“I am grateful to both Dr. Mancini and Scott Lane for the opportunity to lead the first-ever women’s cross country team at Carteret Community College,” said Wilson. “As a community college graduate myself, I look forward to mentoring these student-athletes to achieve personal growth not only on the cross country course but also academically.”

Wilson’s experience extends beyond coaching. She has competed in numerous long-distance events, including the Boston Marathon, and brings decades of personal dedication to the sport. A committed member of the Carteret County community, she lives locally with her husband, Brett, and their daughter, Brooke.

With Wilson at the helm, Carteret Community College looks ahead to Fall 2026 with excitement as the Kraken Women’s Cross Country team begins its inaugural season — grounded in development, discipline, and the values that define Carteret Athletics.