Lander University

Cross Country 6/26/2025 12:44:00 PM Turner Kirby - Director of Athletic Communications

Tydarius Floyd Named Head Cross Country/Track and Field Coach

GREENWOOD – Lander University Athletics Director Brian Reese has named Greenwood native Tydarius Floyd as the third head coach in the history of the Lander cross country and track and field programs. Floyd has served as the assistant track and field coach for the Bearcats over the past two seasons.

"Thank you to Brian Reese for entrusting me with the opportunity to lead the program I've had a hand in building over the past two seasons," said Floyd.

During his time as assistant coach, Floyd helped guide the Bearcats to several program firsts. In 2024, Lander earned its first podium finishes at the Peach Belt Conference Championships with standout performances from Courtney Nesbitt (high jump) and Jamia Clark (shot put). In 2025, Michael Balkman became the program's first PBC champion, winning the 400-meter dash at both the PBC Indoor and Outdoor Championships. Balkman was also named PBC Indoor Track Athlete of the Year, Most Outstanding Athlete at the PBC Indoor Championships, and Most Outstanding Freshman at both the indoor and outdoor championships. Lander also saw Tymia Willis and Clark top the podium at the outdoor championships.

"The work that Tydarius has done over the last two seasons in helping build the foundation of the Lander track and field program is outstanding," said Reese. "I am confident that appointing him as the leader of the program will see the program reach new heights in his tenure."

Floyd returned to his hometown of Greenwood in 2023 after serving as associate head track and field coach at Lees-McRae College. He also previously held an assistant coaching position at Louisburg College.

A 2017 graduate of Greenwood High School, Floyd was a two-time All-Sun Belt performer at Coastal Carolina. He helped break the program record in the 4x100-meter relay and competed at the NCAA Division I East Regional before graduating from Coastal in 2022.

"Throughout my career — from USATF Juniors to the NCAA Division I Championships with Coastal Carolina — I've learned that championship success is built on relentless grit and determination," said Floyd. "That's the foundation I want to continue building this program on. I'm committed to elevating Lander track and field to the pinnacle of the conference and taking the next step toward competing on the national stage. Go Bearcats!"

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Players Mentioned

Michael Balkman: Freshman

Jamia Clark: Sophomore

Courtney Nesbitt: Sophomore

Tymia Willis: Freshman

Players Mentioned

Michael Balkman
: Freshman

Jamia Clark
: Sophomore

Courtney Nesbitt
: Sophomore

Tymia Willis
: Freshman