June 13, 2008

DAVIS, Calif. - Chris Puppione, head cross country coach and assistant track and field coach and on the Aggie staffs for four years, has resigned for personal reasons and will pursue other professional opportunities, it was announced on Friday.

Puppione, a member of the cross country staff since 2004, joined the Aggies as an assistant before being elevated to Associate Director of Cross Country and then head coach. He also assisted the track and field staff by coaching the distance runners. UC Davis claimed men's team titles at the Division I Independent Championships in 2004 and 2006 with four women and eight men claiming All-Independent honors during his tenure.

"We want to thank Chris for guiding our teams and helping us with our transition to Division I," said women's track and field head coach Deanne Vochatzer. "We wish him the best with his future endeavors."

A national search for a coach to serve in both roles is currently taking place.