Westcliff Cross Country Returns Under the Leadership of Coach Abdurrahman Muhammad
Westcliff University is thrilled to announce the return of its cross country program—now the 14th team in the ever-growing Westcliff Athletics family. But this isn’t just a comeback for a team—it’s the rise of a leader whose journey is as inspiring as the sport itself.
From the Tracks of Nigeria to the Heart of Westcliff
At the helm of this exciting new chapter is Coach Abdurrahman Muhammad, a Westcliff MBA alumnus, peer mentor, club founder, and beloved figure across campus. A lifelong runner whose story began with short-distance sprints in Nigeria, Coach Muhammad transitioned into cross country in 2014. His competitive spirit took him from local tracks to marathon courses across Turkey and Nigeria. Yet, for Muhammad, running has always been more than a sport—it’s a life teacher. “Every run tells a unique story,” he shares. “The runner’s high, the mental clarity, the discipline—it’s a lifestyle. Running has taught me perseverance and commitment, values that carry over into every part of my life.”
A Passion for People, Not Just Performance
When Muhammad joined Westcliff in 2022 as an international MBA student, his leadership showed up immediately—and not just on the trails. In 2023, he was appointed as a peer mentor with Student Life, where he helped fellow international students adjust, thrive, and build community. Soon after, he launched one of Westcliff’s first student clubs: the Trail Warriors Running Club, a space where movement met mindfulness and students found strength in community. “When the opportunity arose to become Head Coach, it felt like a natural continuation of my journey,” he said. “It’s an incredible chance to combine my passion for running with my dedication to mentoring students.”
Leading With Heart 
His impact didn’t go unnoticed. Tayler Henslick, associate director of Student Life, recalls his dedication saying, “If anyone has ever met Abdu, they know his passion for students, Westcliff, and Student Life radiates off of him… Leading one of our first clubs, bringing pizza for students every day of Ramadan, and showing up every day in the Student Life Center prepared him to be an incredible coach. We’re excited to keep Abdu in the Westcliff family—he amplifies everything we need in an alumnus, teammate, and leader.”
Coach Muhammad’s leadership style is grounded in the values that define Westcliff Athletics: Character, Culture, Community, Commitment, and Championship—the 5Cs. “My goal is to reignite the fire,” he says. “We’re rebuilding this team from the ground up, guided by those 5Cs. It’s not just about running fast—it’s about running with purpose.”
A New Era of Cross Country at Westcliff
The cross country team’s past glory includes standout athlete Kelvin Kiptoo qualifying for nationals in its inaugural season. Now, with Coach Muhammad leading the way, the program is poised for a powerful rebirth.
And the timing is perfect: the cross country season kicks off in Fall 2025, and Coach Muhammad is actively recruiting student-athletes who want to be a part of this exciting new era. He’s looking for more than just speed—he’s seeking dedication, heart, and a desire to grow on and off the course. “I’m looking for students who are passionate, resilient, and eager to grow,” he says. “Athletes who want to succeed in both academics and sports—and who recognize the privilege of being part of collegiate athletics.”
Kyle Baus, Westcliff’s communications manager, spoke highly of Muhammad entering this new role saying, “I am always thrilled to see Abdu at Westcliff events. He has such a calm, positive, and welcoming spirit. His experience as a Westcliff MBA alumnus, peer mentor, and club leader makes him an invaluable asset. I can’t think of a better person for the job.”
About Westcliff Athletics
Since joining the NAIA and California Pacific Conference (Cal Pac) in 2021, Westcliff Athletics has won 43 championships—a remarkable testament to its student-athletes and coaching staff. Westcliff’s athletics program is guided by the 5Cs:Character, Culture, Community, Commitment, and Championship. These principles define not only what happens in competition, but who Westcliff athletes are off the field. Westcliff Warriors compete with heart, hustle, and honor, representing the university across the globe. In 2024 Westcliff Athletics Earned the Prestigious NAIA 5-Star Gold Status reaffirming our commitment is paying off. Student-athletes come from countries near and far, bringing diverse perspectives and a shared commitment to academic and athletic excellence.
More Than a Team—A Movement
To Coach Muhammad, cross country is deeply personal. It’s a sport of grit, growth, and grace. And under his leadership, it’s more than a comeback. It’s a community in motion. “Beyond building a competitive team,” he says, “I want to create a lasting culture of unity, growth, and excellence—on and off the course.”
Welcome back, Westcliff Cross Country. And welcome home, Coach Muhammad.