May 6, 2004

DAYTON, Ohio - The University of Dayton announced today that Ann Alyanak will take over as head coach of the women's cross country program. Alyanak will also serve as an assistant track and field coach, working primarily with the distance runners. She becomes the first full time distance coach at UD.

Alyanak, a Bluffton, OH native, spent the 2003 season as a graduate assistant coach with the Flyers. She takes over for George Brose, who retired after five seasons.

Alyanak is a 2001 graduate of Purdue University where she was a standout cross crountry and track runner. She was selected MVP of the cross country team all four years she competed, earning All-Region honors in 1999-2000. In track, she was an NCAA qualifyer in the 10,000 meters after winning the Big Ten title as a senior. She also set the school record in the 5000 meters and placed second at the Big Ten Championship.

Alyanak is currently training to qualify for a berth in the 2004 Olympic time trials in the 5000 or 10,000 meter track events.

Alyanak graduated from Purdue with a degree in exercise science and she is currently pursuing her master's degree in exercise science from UD. She resides in Beavercreek with her husband, Ed.