Koplinski Named Cross Country Assistant Coach

CARLINVILLE, IL -- Blackburn College Cross Country & Track Coach Noah Daum has named Trent Koplinski as the cross country and track teams assistant coach. 

Koplinski returns to Blackburn after a standout cross country and track career that saw him earn all-conference honors all four years in cross country along with earning and NCSAA National Championship in the 400 hurdles and the 1500m run. He also set new school records in both 1500 and the steeplechase and is currently a member of the Blackburn College Athletics Hall of Fame. The 1990 season saw him help guide the men's cross country team to a Prairie College Conference Championship. A 1993 graduate of BC, Koplinski went on to serve as an assistant coach for two years after graduation.

His coaching career includes seven years as the cross country and track & field head coach for the St Mary Immaculate Middle School in Plainfield, Illinois. Under his tutelage, his teams won two state trophies on the girls side as well as several IESA Track and Field State Champions (1A/2A) plus two IESA All-State athletes in XC. 

In addition to his coaching role, Koplinski recently retired from the FBI where his role including serving as the physical fitness advisor since 2010.  

Koplinski moved back to the Carlinville area in August 2024 and is married to Sarah.  He still currently trains and competes competitively.