The UIS cross country and track and field program has announced the addition of Kaitlin Skeate as an assistant coach beginning with the 2025-26 season.

"I'm super excited to help mentor Kaitlin through her transition from being a student-athlete to coach," said head coach Emmons King. "Her passion and enthusiasm about our sport is contagious. Kaitlin's experience as an athlete at Illinois State University is going to help take our program to the next level. I'm excited to be able to work with her this year."

Skeate recently graduated from Illinois State with a Bachelor of Science in physical education, concentrating in kinesiology studies, with a minor in athletic coaching. She earned Dean's List honors and was named to the AFNI Honor Roll for her academic performance. As a member of the Redbirds' cross country and track and field teams, she most recently completed her senior outdoor track and field season.

"I could not be more excited to get to be a part of the cross country and track program at UIS," said Skeate. "I want to thank Coach King and Coach Pence for allowing me the opportunity to start my coaching career as a Prairie Star, and I can't wait to get to work and learn from the staff and athletes. Go Stars!"

Skeate also worked with Illinois State Athletics as a special events intern, assisting with game day donor hospitality and event preparation. Additionally, she served as a counselor at the All-American Cross Country Camp in Asheville, North Carolina, where she helped athletes develop running techniques, mental skills and endurance.

She joins King and longtime assistant coach Tyler Pence on the UIS coaching staff.