Jonathan Zimmerman, who served as head coach at powerhouse Orange Lutheran High School for the past 19 years, has been named Biola University's Head Track and Cross Country Coach, BU Athletics Director Dave Holmquist announced today.

Zimmerman continued to develop teams which were among the best in the state while coaching at Orange Lutheran. He led Lancer track and cross country teams to an impressive 28 league and five CIF titles. Zimmerman has also coached 18 individual CIF Champions and 14 runner-ups in the two sports.

“We are excited about having Jonathan join our coaching staff,” Holmquist said. “His experience, knowledge, Christian character and work ethic will combine to make him an outstanding college coach.”

Zimmerman began his coaching career at Chicago-Luther South High School where he served as head cross country and track coach for six years. As head coach, he led the Braves to a State track championship and two state runner-ups, earning Northern Illinois Coach of the Year Honors twice.

"It is an honor and a blessing to join the Biola athletic department," Zimmerman said. "It is very evident that Biola University truly cares about their students; not just athletically, but more importantly spiritually, and scholastically. This will be an outstanding environment to teach and coach in."

Zimmerman is taking over the reigns of the two programs from Leroy Neal, who is retiring from coaching after 17 years at Biola.