Before joining, Thornburg served as the Head Coach at Kentucky Christian University in Kentucky, where he made contributions to the program. Under his leadership, the university saw the setting of multiple school records and personal bests across a variety of events. Thornburg was responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of both the cross country and track programs. He was instrumental in the program's success, driving recruitment, fundraising, and community engagement.
Before his time at Kentucky Christian, Thornburg spent two seasons at Montreat College in North Carolina as the Assistant Coach for Cross Country and Track & Field. In this role, he primarily worked with athletes in the throws, jumps, and multi-events. His expertise played a pivotal role in guiding a female athlete during the 2024 outdoor season, helping her qualify for the NAIA Championships in the Heptathlon. Thornburg also contributed to the operational and logistical aspects of hosting track and field meets, which regularly attracted over 600 athletes and 13 teams, ensuring these events were executed smoothly and efficiently.
As an athlete, Thornburg competed for Montreat College, where he excelled in both the decathlon and 400m. His performances earned him multiple All-Conference honors and contributed to the Cavaliers securing several conference championship titles. Thornburg holds several certifications, including the USTF Level 1 certification. He earned his Master's degree in Sports Management with a focus on Athletic Administration and Compliance from Wingate University, and completed his Bachelor's degree in Communications at Montreat College.
A native of Gastonia, NC, Thornburg currently resides in Clemmons, NC, where he enjoys spending time with his Goldendoodle, Margo.
Accomplishments:
Women:
-2023: best finish at AAC Indoor Track & Field Championships (2nd; 152 points).
-2023: Captured program's first team title at the AAC Outdoor Track & Field
Championships (1st; 155.33 points).
- 2023: Captured AAC Outdoor Track & Field Coaching Staff of the Year.
-2024: Secured runner-up team finish at the AAC Outdoor Track & Field Championships
(2nd; 139.5 points).
Men:
-2023: Second consecutive runner-up finish at the AAC Indoor Track & Field
Championships (2nd; 189 points).
-2023: Won third straight team title at the AAC Outdoor Track & Field
Championships (1st; 190 points).
-2023: Captured AAC Outdoor Track & Field Coaching Staff of the Year.
-2024: Third consecutive runner-up finish at the AAC Indoor Track & Field
Championships (2nd; 157 points).
-2024: Finished runner-up at the AAC Outdoor Track & Field Championships (2nd; 163
points).
