Southwestern Christian University has named Mackenzie Wahpepah-Harris as its new Head Cross Country Coach, bringing in a leader with championship experience, deep Oklahoma roots, and a strong passion for developing young runners.

A former Oklahoma 6A 3200m state champion in 2011, Wahpepah-Harris went on to become one of the most decorated distance athletes in NAIA history. During an outstanding collegiate career, he helped secure three NAIA Cross Country National Championships (2013, 2014, 2015) and earned NAIA All-American honors in each of those seasons. His success continued on the track with an NAIA indoor DMR national title in 2017, the NAIA indoor mile championship in 2018, and the NAIA outdoor 1500m championship in 2018. He also held the Oklahoma City University mile record from 2018 to 2022.

Born and raised in Norman, Oklahoma, Wahpepah-Harris is also a proud citizen of the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma. Coming from a family of educators, he credits his parents and sister—each serving in the Norman school system—for shaping his passion for mentorship and youth development.

Since graduating college in 2018, Wahpepah-Harris has remained active in the Oklahoma running community, coaching youth athletes in Oklahoma City, first at Sovereign Community School and most recently at Western Heights High School.

Wahpepah-Harris expressed excitement for what lies ahead at Southwestern Christian:

"I am eager and excited about the opportunity to build the cross country program at SCU. I feel like this position is one I have been wanting for a long time. I am grateful for the administration giving me this opportunity, and I am looking forward to getting to know the SCU staff and students! Go Eagles!"

Athletic Director Joe Blackwell added, "I'm extremely excited to have such a high-quality individual relaunching our cross-country program. His impressive awards and titles speak for themselves, and there's no doubt he will be an exceptional leader for our student-athletes."

With a championship résumé and a heart for developing runners, Mackenzie Wahpepah-Harris looks poised to elevate SCU's program to new heights.

"For more information, contact our Athletic Recruiting Coordinator -  
Cross Country at scuxc@swcu.edu"