PLNU Women’s Track & Field has announced the addition of Ann Stefan to its coaching staff ahead of the 2026 season. Stefan will coach jumps for the Sea Lions.
“Our coaching staff could not be more excited about what Ann will bring to the table,” Director of Cross Country and Track & Field Jake Poyner said. “It was very apparent throughout the hiring process that she operates with high integrity and elite attention to detail.”
Stefan coached at Del Norte High School from 2019 to 2025, coaching multiple league champions, school record holders and CIF medal winners. Several of her athletes went on to compete collegiately as well.
“She is technically sound in her approach to teaching and coaching the jumps events, but she also cares about and prioritizes mental and emotional wellbeing,” Poyner said. “She has a keen interest in the performance psychology necessary to compete at the highest level within our sport. We’re grateful to have her joining the Point Loma Track & Field family!”
Stefan’s Del Norte girls team won the CIF San Diego Section Division I championship in 2025 after back-to-back runner-up finishes in 2023 and 2024. They also won three league titles during her tenure.
“I am excited to bring my experience to PLNU and contribute to an athletics program that prioritizes purpose and community,” Stefan said. “What stands out to me about this team is the way the coaching staff pushes for confidence, resilience, and consistent high-level performance.
“I’m eager to participate in a culture where athletes understand their preparation, take ownership of their progress, and grow together. PLNU’s faith-centered mission creates an environment where athletes can grow as competitors and as people, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of that.”
Stefan, a graduate of MIT with a major in Chemical-Biological Engineering and a minor in Biology, holds a Level 2 Certification in Jumps from USA Track & Field. She lives in San Diego with her husband Deian and their three pets.
“I love the work of helping athletes grow into confident competitors,” Stefan said. “I coach athletes to handle pressure, practice positive self-talk, and believe in themselves. That mindset is something I look for in recruiting, too – I’m drawn to athletes who are curious, resilient, and excited to grow. I enjoy building relationships with athletes and families and helping them see what’s possible in their future.”
PLNU Women’s Track & Field opens its 2026 season on Saturday at the Ron Kamaka Open, hosted by Mt. San Antonio College.
