RINDGE, N.H. - Franklin Pierce University Athletics has announced the hiring of Ryan Walker as the track and field distance coach and assistant cross country coach.

A former Raven student-athlete in both cross country and track and field, Walker returns to Franklin Pierce following a standout collegiate career. He was a three-time Northeast-10 Conference champion, winning titles as a member of the 4x800-meter relay in 2022 and 2023 and capturing the individual 800-meter championship in 2023. Walker also achieved three NCAA national qualifying standards, competed at two NCAA Cross Country Championships, and was named the Northeast-10 Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 2024.

"We are beyond excited to welcome back Ryan Walker to Franklin Pierce and the Cross Country/Track and Field program," said head coach Connor Everidge. "His experience as both an accomplished athlete and coach will help continue the legacy of the distance programs here at Franklin Pierce while continuing to give back to the FPU community."

Walker earned his bachelor's degree in health sciences, along with a certificate in exercise physiology, from Franklin Pierce in 2024. He graduated as the class salutatorian and is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Life Science Education (grades 7-12).

Before returning to Franklin Pierce, Walker served as an assistant coach at Winnacunnet High School, where he helped athletes earn numerous regional, divisional, and state championships while coaching multiple New Hampshire state record holders.

Walker will oversee the Ravens' distance runners for the track and field program while also serving as an assistant coach for the cross country teams.