WINFIELD, Kan. — Southwestern College has named Associate Athletic Director Lock Schnelle as its interim head track coach, the school announced Thursday. Former head coach Shane Brookshire has resigned.

Schnelle, now in his 18th year at Southwestern, will guide the program while the college conducts a national search for its next head coach. Athletic director Matt O'Brien will lead that effort, with Schnelle serving as a member of the search committee.

"Lock brings instant stability to our track program," O'Brien said. "His service to our student-athletes is second to none, and he truly embodies what it means to put them first."

Schnelle's background spans athletics, coaching and sports medicine. Before entering the collegiate ranks, he coached high jump at Pittsburg High School from 2001 to 2003. A standout athlete himself, Schnelle was a two-time state champion pole vaulter in high school and finished fourth in the state as a sophomore.

He went on to earn bachelor's degrees in Technology Education, Basic Bible with a minor in missions, and Athletic Training. He later completed a master's degree in College Student Development with an emphasis in Student Services in Intercollegiate Athletics from Kansas State University.

During his time at Kansas State, Schnelle served as a graduate assistant athletic trainer with the football program while completing his advanced degree.