Travis Hartke is in his fourth season at Iowa State as assistant coach of the distance and cross country runners. Hartke joined the staff in 2006 as a volunteer assistant, a role which he filled for two years. Now in his  first full-time season, Hartke acts as meet director for Iowa State’s cross country and indoor track and field meets. He also coordinates recruiting for distance events, along with other administrative duties. A native of Litchfield, Ill., Hartke received his USATF Level 1 coaching certification in 2004. In 2008, Hartke served as meet director for the Big 12 Conference Championships. While coach of distance for track and field in 2007, Hartke assisted in coaching Lisa Koll to a NCAA championship and American collegiate record in the 10,000-meter run.

Hartke completed his master’s degree in kinesiology at Iowa State in 2008.  Before coming to Iowa State, Hartke attended NCAA Division III cross country powerhouse North Central College in Naperville, Ill. There he received his bachelor’s degree in physical education and psychology. During his time at North Central, his cross country team finished third, third, second and 12th at the NCAA Division III National Championship.  Hartke was also a steeplechaser for North Central. Hartke is also the director of  the Cyclone Wilderness Cross Country Camp.