Middle Tennessee State University Athletics
Hall of Fame
Dean Hayes
- Induction:
- 1982
Dean Hayes' arrival at MT in 1965 heralded the emergence of a new class of Track and Field competition. Focusing on jumping events and relays and recruiting topnotch competitors, his tenure with the program is marked by multiple SBC and OVC titles as well as Coach of the Year honors from the NCAA, OVC and SBC.
A native of Naperville, Ill., Hayes is credited with opening MT Track and Field to minorities and recruiting MT's first international competitors. Many went on to set national records in collegiate competition and to compete at the Olympics and on other international stages. Hayes has been a frequent official and coach at international athletic events.
Hayes inaugurated the Last Chance Meet in 1975. They drew competitors from around the country who needed to better indoor times and distances to qualify for NCAA competition. The current qualifying system for championships was derived from those meets.
A native of Naperville, Ill., Hayes is credited with opening MT Track and Field to minorities and recruiting MT's first international competitors. Many went on to set national records in collegiate competition and to compete at the Olympics and on other international stages. Hayes has been a frequent official and coach at international athletic events.
Hayes inaugurated the Last Chance Meet in 1975. They drew competitors from around the country who needed to better indoor times and distances to qualify for NCAA competition. The current qualifying system for championships was derived from those meets.
MTSU Football at WKU post-game press conference – 11/15/25
Sunday, November 16
MTSU Men's Basketball Recap vs Evansville 11/12/25
Friday, November 14
MTSU Men's Basketball Recap vs Evansville 11/12/25
Friday, November 14
Raider Report Game 10 - MTSU vs. Western Kentucky University
Friday, November 14
