Now in his 30th year coaching at Providence College, Ray Treacy talks about his highly ranked men’s and women’s squads and the challenges that come with every cross country season

One of the most experienced and successful coaches in the NCAA, Ray Treacy also occupies a position of prominence in the celebrated history of Irish distance running. Treacy’s connection to Providence College extends back to 1974, when his brother, four-time Irish Olympian and two-time world cross country champion John Treacy, began his illustrious career as a Friar. Ray arrived at Providence four years later as Irish national junior cross country champion—and he never left. A three-time All American, Ray Treacy’s own competitive days were highlighted by an 11th place finish at the 1981 NCAA cross country championships as he led Providence to a runner-up finish behind UTEP that fall.