ROCKFORD, Ill. -- Kevin Niles has resigned as Rockford University's head coach of the men's and women's cross country and track and field programs, effective at the conclusion of the men's and women's cross country seasons, Director of Athletics Jess Stanek announced.

"I am thankful for my time at Rockford University. As I move on, the many wonderful memories will stay close," Niles said. "I look forward to watching from afar as the track and field athletes here have a wonderful upcoming season."

"I'd like to wish Kevin and his family all the best as he takes the next step in his career," Stanek said. "He played an integral role in bringing the track and field programs back to Rockford University and helped establish some much-needed stability within the cross country program. I appreciate his contributions to Rockford University and wish him continued success."

During his three years as head coach of both cross country programs, Niles coached one NACC Cross Country Student-Athlete of the Week selection. Rebekah Starwalt earned the honor during the fourth week of the 2025 season, marking Rockford's first recipient since 2013. He also coached two All-NACC selections on the women's side.

One of those selections was Brianna Torres, who finished 10th individually at the 2026 NACC Championship with a 6K time of 24:09.0 to earn the first All-NACC honor of her career. Her 10th-place finish marked the first time a Rockford runner had placed in the top 10 at the NACC Championships since Genesis Cerrato in 2012. Niles also helped three runners earn spots among Rockford's top 10 all-time performers, a list that has been tracked since 2006.

On the men's side, the team recorded the program's best finish in the NACC Championships since 2011 at the 2026 conference championship with its sixth place finish.

In his one year leading both track and field programs, Niles oversaw the breaking of 12 program records across the indoor and outdoor seasons.

A national search to fill the position will begin immediately.