University of New Haven Athletics

The late Jim Hanneken served the University of New Haven and its student-athletes for more than 20 years directing the men’s and women’s cross country and track & field programs.

Jim came to UNH in the fall of 1981 as head men’s cross country coach. In 1983, he assumed the added role of head men’s track and field coach, and held those positions until 1991. During his tenure as head men’s track and field coach, Hanneken developed one All-American and had eight NCAA qualifiers. He also saw his Chargers earn numerous All-IC4A, All-New England and All-Conference honors.

Jim was selected as the 1985 New England Collegiate Conference Coach of the Year, and he led the Blue and Gold to two conference titles during his tenure. Hanneken took a hiatus from UNH following the spring of 1991, returning to West Haven in the Fall of 1995 as head men’s cross country coach. The following year, Jim became head coach of the first New Haven women’s cross country and track & field teams, a position he held through the Spring of 2003.

Before his retirement, he developed a steady group of All-New England and All-Conference performers on the track. Hanneken left the UNH women’s programs with a growing legacy that was a direct result of his commitment to excellence. Without a doubt, Jim is remembered as a man who was well-loved by his student-athletes both on and off the track, as he was always there for them no matter the situation, not only as coach, but also a mentor.