May of 2024 brought some major success in the life of Atlantic Alumni and Ankeny Head Track and Field Coach Jordan Mullen. He had the opportunity to watch his track program win the Class 4A State Title this year in Des Moines while eclipsing a state record 112 points. It was the first state title for the Hawks since 1972. The feeling of winning a state title was one filled with passion and euphoria for Mullen.

When reflecting on the moments that led him to such a powerful accomplishment, Mullen had a list of names to thank. But one former coach in Atlantic had a major impact in his high school life. State title winner and Atlantic community member Gaylord Schelling.

Coach Mullen had a prolific career as a Trojan being a seven-time state champion, setting a class 3A state meet record in the 110 meter hurdles his senior year and winning two titles at the Drake Relays in the 110-meter hurdles.

That success carried over for Mullen as a springboard to becoming a Big Ten champion at the University of Iowa, breaking school records, and winning multiple invite titles. Mullen’s time at Iowa was some of his most formative years and he credits his time as a Hawkeye to making him the coach he is today.

Coach Mullen is excited about his second year of coaching at Ankeny. He noted that they have another large class of athletes filled with plenty of talent.

With the size of next year’s group and the memories of winning a state title still fresh, Coach Mullen is keeping his expectations high for next year. He also hopes that his group of athletes can stay healthy throughout the year.

The future is looking bright for the Hawks and Coach Mullen.