Wisconsin announces Badger Hall of Famer Chris Solinsky as W Club Executive Director
January 07, 2026 | General News
A five-time NCAA champion at Wisconsin, Solinsky will lead W Club efforts
MADISON, Wis. – Today, Wisconsin Athletics announced Chris Solinsky as the new Executive Director of the W Club.
One of the most decorated athletes in Wisconsin history, Solinsky earned five NCAA championships, four Big Ten titles, and 14 All‑American honors, helping lead Wisconsin to the 2005 Cross Country National Championship and the 2007 NCAA Indoor Track national title. He was inducted into the UW Athletics Hall of Fame in 2017.
"We're thrilled to welcome Chris and his family back to Madison," said Director of Athletics Chris McIntosh. "I cannot think of a better fit to lead the W Club, and I'm excited about his fresh energy and ability to steward our proud traditions."
In the role, Solinsky will work closely with Wisconsin letterwinners, coaches, staff and the W Club advisory board to advance alumni engagement, steward Wisconsin traditions, and continue building a shared vision that reflects the values of "Once a Badger, Always a Badger."
A native of Stevens Point, Wisconsin, Solinsky returns to Madison after successful coaching roles at William & Mary, Florida and Oregon, where he built high‑performing programs and mentored student‑athletes with a focus on authenticity, development and long‑term success.
He will officially begin his duties on January 8, 2026.
Solinsky UW Athletic Hall of Fame bio
