FAIRFIELD, Conn. – Fairfield University Director of Athletics Eugene P. Doris has announced that Brendan Rickert has been named head coach of the Stags men's and women's cross country program. Rickert was a standout runner at Sacred Heart University and brings with him coaching experience at various levels.

“I'm pleased to have Brendan joining the Fairfield University staff,” Doris said. “He's a great fit for the men's and women's cross country program. He possesses a great deal of enthusiasm for the sport and, along with his expertise, he will help our program continue to flourish.”

Rickert comes to Fairfield from Weston High School where he served as the head coach for cross country for the last two years. A 2010 graduate of Sacred Heart, Rickert was one of the Pioneers' top runners during his career, finishing in the top-15 at the NEC Championship twice.

Rickert, a native of Danbury, Conn., also holds a Masters of Exercise Science and is pursuing a Masters of Business Administration from Sacred Heart where he is a member of the faculty.