University of Lynchburg

Sam Llaneza joins the University of Lynchburg cross Country and Track and Field Staff in the fall of 2025. Llaneza brings elite collegiate experience and a deep passion for distance running the staff. A standout student-athlete at the University of Lynchburg, he competed in both cross country and outdoor track, earning 10 NCAA Division III All-American honors, a 2024 DMR national championship, and the 2024 2500m national title. His consistent excellence earned him 3x Regional Runner of the Year and 2x Lynchburg Athlete of the Year, cementing his place as one of the top distance runners in program history.

Off the track, Llaneza also excelled academically, earning Academic All-American honors and completing both his undergraduate degree and MBA at Lynchburg (Class of 2025). During the 2024–25 season, he served as a volunteer assistant coach for Lynchburg’s indoor track distance squad, where he helped guide the next generation of athletes.

In addition to his collegiate coaching experience, Llaneza also worked with the Burger Track Club, providing online coaching for distance runners at various levels. His background as a high-level competitor, mentor, and coach makes him an invaluable asset to any athlete looking to improve and chase their goals.