(SAN DIEGO) After three years coaching at his alma mater, Landon Bright has resigned as PLNU Cross Country Head Coach.
 
"I deeply appreciate Landon's efforts these past three seasons," Athletic Director Ethan Hamilton said. "While disappointing to see him leave, I deeply respect and support Landon's decision to do what is best for him and his family. We wish Landon, Katie and the boys nothing but the best in their next venture."
 
Bright returned to Point Loma in 2021 as the Associate Head Cross Country Coach and Assistant Track & Field Coach, before being promoted to Head Cross Country Coach ahead of the 2022 season.
 
In both seasons at the helm, he led the Sea Lions to improved finishes at the PacWest Championships and NCAA West Regionals from the season prior.

In 2022, Bright coached Point Loma to a fifth-place finish at the PacWest Championships and 18th place at the NCAA West Regionals. Aubrie Nex earned Third Team All-PacWest honors, with PLNU's entire top-five at both meets being underclassmen.

Then in 2023, Bright's Sea Lions finished fourth at the PacWest Championships before placing 11th at the NCAA West Regionals. Nex raced to Second Team All-PacWest honors, while Maddie Reeves received Third Team All-PacWest recognition.

"Coach Bright has been a great fit and model for our distance runners," Track & Field Head Coach Jerry Arvin said. "His coaching style and manner have helped the cross country team continue to get stronger during his tenure among PacWest, regional and national programs.
 
"He has been a blessing to our program and coaching staff. He will be missed and will be in our thoughts and prayers as he and his family move forward into God's greater plan."
 
Before coaching on The Point, Bright ran for the PLNU men's cross country and track & field teams from 2005-09. He was an NAIA All-American in cross country in 2008 and an NAIA All-American in track & field in the 10k in 2009. He still sits on four of the Sea Lions all-time Top 10 lists.
 
"Saying goodbye to PLNU is a difficult decision for my family and me," Bright said. "I have been involved with PLNU for 20 years as a student, alum, coach and supporter. Although I will no longer be coaching at PLNU, I will continue to support the institution and the amazing athletic program.
 
"I would like to thank Ethan Hamilton, Coach Arvin and the entire staff for their support during my time here. I have grown personally, professionally and spiritually during my time here and for that I am beyond grateful. I have been coaching for 15 years and feel it's best for me and my family to transition to other pursuits.
 
"PLNU is a very special place and I am excited for the student-athletes to continue the tradition that has been put forth. It's been an honor to coach at Point Loma and I look forward to seeing the cross country and track & field programs continue to succeed."
 
With the impending retirement and upcoming final season for Track & Field Head Coach Arvin, Point Loma will begin a national search this spring for both a Head Cross Country/Track & Field Coach and an Associate Head Coach for Track & Field.
 
"Landon has put us in a great position for a new leader to come and build upon our recent success, and we remain excited to see this program continue to grow," Hamilton said.
 
All alumni are encouraged to come on Saturday, Feb. 3 to acknowledge Coach Arvin at the annual Green, Gold & Old Meet.