TYLER, TEXAS — The University of Texas at Tyler has announced the hiring of Jhawan Horton as the Patriots' new throws coach, bringing a proven collegiate coach, former throws athlete and accomplished student-athlete developer to the UT Tyler Track & Field program.

Horton joins the Patriots following a successful coaching career that includes stops at Pratt Community College, Eastern Washington University and Fort Scott Community College. Most recently, he served as an assistant coach, resident supervisor and student success coach at Pratt Community College, where he worked with the throws group while also supporting student-athletes academically and personally.

Horton has established a strong record of competitive success throughout his coaching career, helping produce 30 NJCAA All-Americans, 27 school records, multiple conference champions and an NCAA Division I national qualifier. He has also coached ICCAC champions in both the men's and women's weight throw.

His coaching experience extends well beyond event-specific instruction. Horton has been involved in recruiting, practice planning, athlete evaluation, video analysis, academic support, team culture, travel coordination, budgeting and program administration. As interim head track & field coach at Fort Scott Community College, he oversaw all aspects of the program while developing a culture centered on discipline, accountability and competitive excellence.

"After talking with several people who have interacted with Coach Horton during his coaching career, three things always came to the forefront: Coach Horton is a person of high character, strong work ethic and accountability," said David Kaiser, UT Tyler head track & field coach. "Three very important things in the foundation of our track and field program. We are excited to welcome Jhawan to UT Tyler and believe his experience, energy and commitment to student-athlete development will make a tremendous impact on our throws group and our entire program."

Horton's coaching philosophy is built around developing the whole student-athlete — physically, mentally and academically. He emphasizes technical excellence, discipline and a strong team culture while challenging athletes to reach their potential both in competition and in the classroom.

"I am extremely excited and grateful for the opportunity to join the University of Texas at Tyler and become part of Patriot Nation," Horton said. "UT Tyler has a tremendous vision for the development of its student-athletes, and I am excited to contribute to that vision. My goal is to build strong relationships with our athletes, help them maximize their abilities and create a throws group that competes with confidence, discipline, and purpose. I can't wait to get to work."

Horton joins the Patriots following a successful coaching career that includes stops at Pratt Community College, Eastern Washington University, Fort Scott Community College, and Hawkeye CC. Most recently, he served as an assistant coach, resident supervisor, and student success coach at Pratt Community College, where he worked with the throws group while also supporting student-athletes academically and personally.

During his time at Hawkeye, Horton helped guide the program to a program-best third-place finish at the 2022 Women's Indoor ICCAC Championships and coached athletes to conference championships. His athletes also helped rewrite the program record books, contributing to 27 school records during his coaching tenure.

At UT Tyler, Horton will oversee the development of the Patriots' throws athletes while contributing to recruiting, technical and strength training and the continued growth of the program. His addition strengthens a UT Tyler coaching staff committed to developing student-athletes who pursue excellence in competition, academics and life beyond the track.