BUZZARDS BAY, Mass -- Massachusetts Maritime Academy Director of Athletics Mike Kelly announced this Spring that John O'Leary will be taking over the head coaching duties of the Women's Cross Country team at the Academy.

O'leary, originally from Brewster, MA, is a graduate of SUNY Cortland where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education with a coaching major. O'Leary was a varsity member of Cortland's cross country and track & field teams.

Following his time in New York, John returned to Massachusetts and earned his Masters of Science degree in Business Management from Lesley University in Cambridge. He also holds two Masters from Bridgewater State University in Coaching and Strength & Conditioning. 

Most recently, O'Leary was the Assistant Cross Country and Track & Field coach at Bridgewater State in 2022 and 2023. While coaching with the Bears, the teams earned four MASCAC Conference Championships. 

Personally, John is a past winner of the Aruba Marathon, Lake Placid Marathon, Dutchess County Marathon and a two-time Cape Cod Marathon winner. He has also been a podium finisher at the Yonkers Marathon, Bermuda Marathon, and Empire State Games Marathon. His best marathon time was two hours and 20 minutes which he accomplished twice. 

Outside of running, Coach enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and being outdoors.

O'Leary takes over a strong group of Buccaneers who have taken home first or second place finishes in each of the last three Travis J. Fuller Invitational meets at Mass. Maritime.