Men's Track & Field | 5/12/2026 10:59:01 AM
Norfolk, Va-- Morgan State Associate Head Cross Country/ Track & Field Coach has been selected to participate in the 2026 NCAA Women Coaches Academy (WCA) and NCAA Academy 2.0 program, hosted by WeCOACH in partnership with the NCAA May 17–20, 2026, in Denver, Colorado.
Smythe, a 2007 graduate of Morgan State University, is completing her ninth season as Assistant Cross Country and Track & Field Coach for the Bears’ men’s and women’s programs. Smythe began her coaching career in 2007 following an outstanding collegiate career at Morgan State, where she earned recognition as a three-time NCAA Regional Qualifier in the 400m, 400m hurdles, 4x100m relay, and 4x400m relay.
The nationally recognized leadership development programs will feature 122 women coaches from across the country representing all levels of collegiate athletics.
NCAA Academy 2.0 Class #9
Janice Smythe - Morgan State University | Associate Head Coach, Cross Country & Track and Field
The NCAA Women Coaches Academy provides transformational leadership training designed to equip women coaches with the tools, strategies, and support systems needed to thrive professionally and personally. NCAA Academy 2.0 serves as an advanced leadership experience exclusively for Women Coaches Academy alumnae.
“This year’s participation by coaches connected to HBCUs and MEAC-affiliated institutions reflects the growing impact women leaders continue to make across collegiate athletics,” said WeCOACH CEO Vanessa Fuchs. “The Academy experience creates lasting networks, leadership growth, and opportunities that extend well beyond the classroom.”
A major highlight of the 2026 Academies will include the presentation of the 2025-26 Lifetime Achievement Awards presented by Jostens. Honorees include Kathy Aspaas, Valorie Kondos Field, Dr. Tina Sloan Green, Billie Jean King, Lorene Ramsey, and Barbara Stevens for their lasting contributions to coaching and women’s athletics.
Since its inception, more than 2,500 coaches have graduated from WeCOACH Academy programs, which continue to focus on retention, advancement, and leadership opportunities for women coaches nationwide.
About WeCOACH
Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is a nonprofit organization dedicated to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches across all sports and levels through professional growth and leadership development programs.
About the NCAA
The NCAA provides athletic and academic opportunities for more than 520,000 student-athletes annually and supports championships and scholarships across all collegiate divisions.
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