College of DuPage Athletics

Ron Ottoson built a track and field power over his 30-plus year association with the Chaparrals. He served as head coach from 1968-88, and returned in 1994 for two seasons. Including his seven seasons as cross country coach (1968-74), he coached 93 track and field and three cross country All-Americans. Nine individuals won national championships under his direction and 20 of his teams won state outdoor or indoor championships. He totaled 19 state coach of the year accolades in both track and field, and cross country. He is a member of the NJCAA Hall of Fame (1993), the Illinois Track and Cross Country Coaches Association Hall of Fame (1980) and the Region IV Hall of Fame (2000). College of DuPage’s track and field complex is named in his honor. Ron and his wife Kay are long-time Elmhurst residents and are the parents of Eric and Christine, and grandparents to Ty, Molly, Audrey and Josie.