By Jayson Henderson

In recognition of his 36 years of dedication to Kansas State, former Director of Track and Field/Cross Country Cliff Rovelto was honored on Friday as the university named the indoor track after him. The newly renovated track at the K-State Indoor Track and Field Complex will now be known as the Cliff Rovelto Indoor Track, marking a legacy of commitment and excellence.

Rovelto, who served as head coach from 1992 until his retirement in 2024, led the Wildcats to numerous accolades, including five Big 12 Championships and 17 NCAA individual titles. His influence extended beyond athletes, shaping future coaches and fostering a culture of growth within the program.

The event, held during the K-State Track Open House, also celebrated former K-State Olympians, including Erik Kynard with his reallocated 2012 Olympic high jump gold medal and Eugene Omalla with his recent gold from the Paris Olympics. The complex’s state-of-the-art 200-meter, banked track, introduced during the 2023-24 season, serves as a lasting testament to Rovelto’s vision for the program.