HOUSTON — Nine-time Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis has been tapped to be the next head coach for the University of Houston’s track and field program Thursday. Lewis, a former Coog, previously was the assistant coach for the program.

The Olympic legend was promoted alongside the university’s longtime assistant coach, Will Blackburn, whose new title is the director of track and field. The vice president of athletics, Chris Pezman, released a statement celebrating the duo’s accomplishments.

“Will and Carl are both incredible representatives and products of the University of Houston, Houston Athletics and our track and field programs,” Pezman said. “I am personally grateful for their leadership during this transitionary time. We are fortunate to have individuals of their caliber leading our program with Will doing so on the day-to-day side and Carl as head coach. They are two of the very best in the country.”

Lewis joined the Houston track and field coaching staff in 2013 as a volunteer coach before being hired full time. During his time as a coach for the University of Houston, he has helped lead the program to 15 combined conference championships.