East Michigan News

Eastern Michigan University has appointed Nia Henderson as the new Assistant Coach for its Track & Field team, focusing on throwers. This announcement was made by Track & Field Co-Directors Chris Best and Sterling Roberts.

"It's great to have someone with Nia's experience, both as an elite athlete and as a coach. It's a huge bonus that she's familiar with the Mid-American Conference (MAC), and has local roots. We're excited to have her," said Best and Roberts.

Henderson previously worked at NAIA Madonna University in Livonia, Michigan from 2020 to 2024, where she coached the Crusaders' throws teams and served as strength & conditioning coach for both track & field programs, along with volleyball.

"I am excited to unlock the potential and maximize our throws group performance while guiding them to new heights and leading them to greatness," stated Henderson.

During her five years at Madonna, Henderson's coaching led throwers to achieve 21 NAIA national qualifying performances, nine NAIA All-American Awards, and 11 school records. She was recognized as the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) Assistant Coach of the Year in 2023. Her contributions were significant in the Crusaders' victory at the 2021 NAIA Men's Outdoor National Championship.

In addition to her collegiate work, Henderson founded the Michigan Elite Throws Club (MET) in 2018. The club is noted for producing successful high school athletes who have earned titles such as New Balance National Champion and Nike Indoor National Champion. MET alumni hold various state records in Michigan for events like hammer throw and discus.

Before entering collegiate coaching, Henderson gained experience at several Michigan high schools including Livonia Churchill, Canton, Plymouth, and Salem.

As an athlete herself, Henderson achieved all-state honors during her time at Livonia Churchill High School before attending Kent State University on a track scholarship. At Kent State, she was an NCAA Division I All-American in weight throw and placed fifth in the 2009 NCAA Indoor National Championships.

Henderson continued competing post-collegiately in U.S. Olympic Trials in 2012 and 2016 and participated in powerlifting competitions including the 2014 Powerlifting World Championship.

She holds degrees from Kent State University (Bachelor's in Business Management/Accounting) and Eastern Michigan University (Master's in Sport Management).