Skip Ad

Cross Country

Virginia Wesleyan Names Balot as Cross Country Head Coach, Track & Field Assistant

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. --- Jacob Balot was named Head Cross Country Coach and Assistant Track & Field Coach at Virginia Wesleyan University in July of 2025 according to Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Andrea Hoover-Erbig.

Jacob brings a proven track record of athlete development, recruiting success, and program leadership at the collegiate and high school levels.

Before joining the Marlins, Balot served as a Graduate Assistant Coach at Goucher College, where he played a critical role in recruiting, coaching, and managing operations for both the Cross Country and Track & Field programs. He led training for middle-distance and distance groups, guided national-caliber student-athletes, and supported the team through a record-setting 2023–24 season, highlighted by 23 new school records. Notably, he coached NCAA Division III All-American Tanise Thornton-Fillyaw and recruited and developed Aryanna Paulena, a USTFCCCA Regional Field Athlete of the Year.

Balot's coaching experience also includes positions at Western School of Technology High School and Tallulah Falls School, where he focused on technical instruction, athlete performance, and foundational race strategies in middle-distance and distance events.

A dedicated recruiter, Balot is skilled in managing campus visits, using platforms like FrontRush and Slate, and helping student-athletes navigate the college admissions process. His collaborative approach to training includes close work with athletic trainers and support staff to ensure holistic student-athlete development and wellbeing.

Balot holds a USA Track & Field Level 1 certification and is CPR/First Aid/AED certified by the Red Cross. He is currently completing his Master of Education in Athletic Program Leadership and Administration at Goucher College. He earned his B.S. in Sport and Fitness Administration from Piedmont University, where he was a standout athlete. His honors include multiple USA South All-Conference selections, school records in relay events, and a role as Cross Country team captain.

Known for his passion, energy, and results-driven approach, Coach Balot is committed to building a competitive and inclusive culture at Virginia Wesleyan—one that develops high-achieving student-athletes on and off the course.