— In a stunning and widely celebrated move, the University of Virginia has announced the return of legendary coach Dave Cianelli as the new Director of Track & Field and Cross Country. Cianelli, known for building one of the most respected programs in collegiate athletics during his tenure at Virginia Tech, is poised to bring his championship pedigree and visionary leadership back to the Commonwealth.
Cianelli, who retired from Virginia Tech in 2023 after over two decades of transformative coaching, led the Hokies to 17 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) championships and mentored dozens of All-Americans and Olympians. His return to the collegiate stage marks a new era for the Cavaliers’ program, which has seen flashes of success but lacked consistent dominance in recent years.
“It’s an honor to return to collegiate coaching, especially at a university with as much potential as UVA,” said Cianelli in a press conference this morning. “There’s something special brewing here — the athletes, the facilities, the vision. I’m excited to help elevate Virginia to national prominence.”
UVA Athletic Director Carla Williams called Cianelli’s hiring “a home run for the entire university.”
“Dave brings not only unmatched experience, but a proven ability to develop both student-athletes and winning cultures,” Williams said. “We are thrilled to welcome him to the Cavalier family.”
Sources indicate that Cianelli has already begun assembling a new coaching staff, blending familiar faces from his Virginia Tech days with emerging coaching talent from across the NCAA. His initial priorities include recruiting top-tier talent, strengthening the program’s presence at major national meets, and building a cohesive team culture rooted in accountability and excellence.
Reaction across the track and field world has been swift and enthusiastic. Olympic medalist and former Hokie thrower Marcel Jackson tweeted, “Coach Cianelli is the real deal. UVA just made the best hire in the country. Watch out.”
Cianelli’s return also adds a dramatic new chapter to the storied rivalry between UVA and Virginia Tech — but for now, all eyes are on Charlottesville as the Cavaliers prepare to take their next steps under the leadership of a legend.
With excitement building and expectations high, one thing is clear: Dave Cianelli is back, and he’s ready to run.
