The 2025-26 academic year marked Coach Daryl Nelson’s second season as the head coach of Albright’s men’s and women’s cross country and track and field programs.
Nelson was named head coach prior to the 2025 season, bringing extensive experience at both the collegiate and high school levels. Under his leadership, nine Lions competed at the 2025 MAC Outdoor Track and Field Championships.
Nelson brings more than 20 years of coaching experience to Albright. He began his coaching career with three years at Saint John Neumann and Saint Maria Goretti High Schools before moving on to La Salle University. Following his time at La Salle, Nelson was named head track and field coach at Boys’ Latin High School in Philadelphia, Pa. From 2016-21, he served as the head cross country and track and field coach at the University of the Sciences.
In addition to his coaching experience, Nelson spent 22 years working with the City of Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department, serving as an acting district manager, recreation leader, and track and field chair. In these roles, he helped oversee and organize athletic leagues and recreational activities across 16 different sports, providing opportunities for youth of all ages, including teenagers.
Beyond coaching, Nelson brings more than 30 years of experience in education. Throughout his career, he has held teaching positions at Cornerstone Christian Academy, Raising Horizon Quest Charter School, Career Academic Development Institute (OIC of America Literacy Program), Communities In Schools Education Center, and Mastery Charter High School, all in the Philadelphia area.
Most recently, Nelson served as an assistant principal at Bishop McDevitt while also working as a middle school science teacher at Penn Wood Middle School.
Nelson earned a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management from Temple University. He later continued his education at Eastern University, earning a Master of Education in Multicultural Education as well as a post-baccalaureate degree in the same field.
