FAIRFAX, Va. – George Mason track and field head coach Andrew Gerard has announced the promotion of Tim Nickas and Tony Mihalich to Associate Head Coaches.
 
"I'm extremely pleased to see Coach Nickas' and Mihalich's titles elevated to reflect the roles they have been filling for our programs," said head coach Andrew Gerard. "In my mind, the roles Associate Head Coaches fill stretch beyond those of just typical assistant coaches and Tony and Tim have done just that. First, they have taken on numerous administrative tasks necessary to run a whole team. Beyond that, they have directly led their specific event areas to historic levels of excellence at Mason, which is no small feat. Finally, they both think and act departmentally and programmatically with the "big picture" in mind. We have a really excellent staff across the board right now with all event areas firing on all cylinders, so I'm very pleased to be recognizing Tony and Tim's contributions with the elevated titles."
 
Since joining the program, Nickas and Mihalich have contributed to significant growth in the track and field program, including the men's team winning the 2019 A10 Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field Championship. The women's team achieved the A10 Outdoor Track and Field Championship in 2019 and 2023, with Mihalich also coaching the women's team to A10 Outdoor and Indoor Track and Field Championships in 2014.
 
Mihalich, who rejoined the program in 2017 after coaching at Iona, has been instrumental in the team's success, both athletically and academically.
 
As the coach for the women's distance and middle-distance runners, Mihalich has overseen multiple NCAA qualifiers, school records, and A10 champions, while also supporting the men's team. His recruiting efforts, especially internationally, have brought in top talent, enriching the program's success.
 
"It's a remarkable honor to receive this title at a program I'm so proud to be a part of," said Tony Mihalich. "Coach Gerard has been such a meaningful part of my life, and I'd like to thank him, as well as this department, for the opportunity to continue growing and reaching new levels. I'd also like to thank my wife Maddie- her support is the only way I'm able to make this job and turn it into a passion, and she's been there for every peak and every valley. Finally- it's always been about the athletes. Their commitment to this sport, and their success, are the shoulders I stand on. This is an honor and responsibility I'm thrilled to take on!"
 
In addition to coaching, Mihalich handles equipment, travel planning, and budgeting for the team. He also leads community outreach and advocates for student-athlete mental health. 

Mihalich earned his bachelor's degree in Spanish from John Carroll University and is a USATF Level I Certified Coach. 
 
Nickas joined the staff in 2019, coaching pole vault, multi-events, horizontal jumps, high jump, and javelin. Under his leadership, his athletes consistently contribute over 20% of the team's points, with several conference champions and NCAA qualifiers.
 
Recently, Tim Nickas coached Walt Bannerman who was named All-American at the 2024 NCAA Championships for the pole vault event. 
 
Nickas also excels in recruiting, bringing in top student-athletes who thrive both athletically and academically. Administratively, he oversees team travel, revamped social media, led successful fundraising efforts, and has been dependable with the financial management for the program. 
 
"I've had the time of my life coaching at George Mason University and I am so excited to step into this larger leadership role. What I have learned from the tremendous athletes that have been a part of this program is immeasurable and I couldn't be more grateful for their impact on me and my family. Thank you to our athletic administration for this new opportunity and to Coach Gerard for his gracious mentorship and trust. I would also like to thank my wife, Danielle, whose support and example is greater than I could ever fully appreciate."
 
As an athlete, Nickas was part of The Mount's storied decathlon tradition working under hall of fame coach, Jim Deegan. Nickas achieved All-East honors in the decathlon during his time competing for The Mount.