LaShaunda Jones returns to The Hill to head track, cross country programs

LaShaunda Jones

NORMAL, Alabama -- LaShaunda Jones, Alabama A&M's first Southwestern Athletic Conference track champion, is returning to The Hill to head the Bulldogs' cross country and track and field programs, Alabama A&M Director of Athletics Bryan Hicks announced.

Jones has been an assistant coach with the Alabama State men's and women's track and field teams for the past 11 seasons, including the 2015 SWAC champion women's team.

After graduating from A&M in 2001, she was a graduate assistant for the Bulldogs from 2001-02 and an assistant coach from 2002-05. Jones also has master's degrees from A&M and Alabama State.

"Coach Jones brings a wealth of experience as a coach and student-athlete," Hicks said. "She succeeded in the classroom and on the track at Alabama A&M and as a coach.

"Her enthusiasm and of track and field will only enhance our ability to return the track program to the heights it had once achieved."

Jones, an honor student, was the team captain in 2001 and won the SWAC 60-meter indoor championship. She was also named Huntsville Athlete of the Year.

"I'm grateful to Mr. Hicks and (Alabama A&M President) Dr. (Andrew) Hugine for giving me the opportunity to come back home and build the program," Jones said. "I also thank my family and friends for their support while a student-athlete and during my career."

At Alabama State, Jones was a part of 17 SWAC championships and has coached a SWAC MVP. She has also coached numerous Hornet record holders, SWAC indoor and outdoor individual champions and NCAA regional and national qualifiers, along with nationally ranked athletes and relay teams.

"I'm very excited about the future," Jones said. "I'm excited to see the group of student-athletes we have at Alabama A&M.

"I'm ready to get started."

COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION