The College of DuPage athletics department mourns the passing of Hall of Fame coach Ron Ottoson, whose impact helped shape the Chaparrals track and field and cross-country programs for more than three decades.

Ottoson built a powerhouse during his 30-plus years associated with the program. He served as head track and field coach from 1968–88 and returned to lead the program again in 1994 and 1995. He also guided the Chaparrals cross country team from 1968–74.

During his tenure, Ottoson coached 93 track and field All-Americans and three cross country All-Americans. Nine individuals captured national championships under his direction, while 20 of his teams won state outdoor or indoor championships.

Ottoson's excellence as a coach was recognized throughout the state and region, earning 19 state Coach of the Year honors across track and field and cross country.

His legacy in the sport extended beyond College of DuPage. Ottoson was inducted into the National Junior College Athletic Association Hall of Fame in 1993, the Illinois Track and Cross Country Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1980, and the Region IV Hall of Fame in 2000.

In recognition of his lasting contributions to the program, the College of DuPage track and field complex bears Ottoson's name, a testament to the generations of student-athletes he mentored and the championship tradition he helped establish. Ottoson was inducted into the College of DuPage Athletics Hall of Fame in 2019. 

Ottoson's obituary can be found here.