Auburn, ME - Central Maine Community College is happy to announce the return of Kevin Mitchell as head coach of the Cross Country program ahead of the 2025-26 season.

Mitchell heads into his fifth year in charge of the team having previously been the head coach from 2017-20. The Minot, ME native helped developed the Mustangs' Men's and Women's Cross Country teams into contenders in the Yankee Small College Conference, including coaching multiple athletes to All-Conference honors.

"I'm excited to welcome Kevin back to our already outstanding coaching staff," said athletic director Dave Gonyea. "He has a long-standing connection to the college, having previously served as our cross country coach. Kevin's deep knowledge of the sport and unwavering commitment speak volumes about his character. He truly is the missing piece we've been looking for."

Before coaching at CMCC, Mitchell was the Cross Country coach at Poland Regional High School for two seasons. In 2013, PRHS created the Kevin Mitchell Leadership Award, presented annually to a runner who exemplifies outstanding leadership during the season. He has worked with amateur youth and adult athletes as well as competitive collegiate runners. Mitchell developed the Couch to 5K program for RSU 16 Adult Education, directed his own road race, and served on the Race Committee Board for the L/A Triple Crown 5K Series and the Lake Auburn Half Marathon & 5K.

Poland is where he got his start in running, competing as a student for the Knights before heading to the University of Maine. Since then he has remained active as a marathoner, outdoor adventurer, and avid competitor. Mitchell recently competed on the international stage this past summer in the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship in Wales, running in the half marathon. He can often be found running with groups like the Sabattus Running Club, Moving ME Forward, and Trails in the Valley at Lost Valley.

Off the trails, Mitchell is a Senior Account Manager at Rinck Advertising with more than 16 years of experience in strategic leadership and management. He lives in Turner, ME and enjoys running the camp roads around Bear Pond and spending time at the lake with family and friends.