Chadron State Athletics announced that Jake Gruver has stepped down as the Head Coach for Track and Field/Cross Country, effective immediately, to pursue a new opportunity outside of athletics. Director of Athletics Mannie Reinsch expressed that Gruver's departure leaves a significant gap, commending his ability to foster relationships with student-athletes. Gruver returned to his alma mater in September 2023, leading the track program and overseeing cross country in 2024, and has been instrumental in the success of student-athletes like Chayton Bynes.

By the Numbers
  • Gruver coached Chayton Bynes to All-American honors in the triple jump in 2024-25 and 2025-26.
  • Bynes and two other athletes earned All-America honors at the 2025 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships.
  • Gruver was a seven-time RMAC champion and earned All-American honors in 2011.
State of Play
  • An interim head coach for the upcoming 2026-27 season will be named shortly.
  • A national search for a permanent replacement will begin in early 2027.
What's Next

The athletics department will focus on maintaining the culture and level of the programs as they search for Gruver's permanent replacement. Interim leadership will aim to build on the foundation he laid, ensuring continuity in the programs' direction.

Bottom Line

Gruver's exit marks a pivotal moment for Chadron State's Track and Field/Cross Country programs, forcing the department to quickly adapt while preserving the strong legacy and culture he created.