Coach Jennifer Nelson-Siciliano attended the first graduating class of Barnegat High School, where she played soccer and ran indoor and outdoor track. She then attended Ocean County College for two years, as part of the NJ Stars program, where she was part of the 2009 National Championship-winning women’s cross country team, under Head Coach Eddie Baynes. Jennifer was named All-American, Academic All-American, and Female Athlete of the Year during her time at Ocean County College.

Coach Nelson-Siciliano then competed on the Division 1 level in cross county, indoor, and outdoor track and field – earning a scholarship to Monmouth University. She served as captain of the cross country team and earned accolades such as Female Athlete of the Year, MVP, All-Region, Academic All-Region, All-Conference, Academic All-Conference, as well as multiple conference titles for her performances specifically in the 5,00m and 10,00m. Jen was an NCAA D1 Eastern Qualifier in the 10,00m, and held university records in the 5,00m and 10,000m during her time at Monmouth. She graduated from Monmouth University in 2012 with a B.S. in Biology with a concentration in molecular cell physiology and dual minors in chemistry and health studies. Jennifer earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2015 from Stockton University and served as the assistant cross country coach during her time there.

Jen rounds out her running experience being a NJIAA track and field official for 4 years, serving as the race director of the Shore Athletic Club’s cross country program for 5 years, competing internationally in Jamaica in 2013, and running the Boston Marathon in 2014. Jen is also one of the most recent inductees into the Ocean County College Hall of Fame in 2016.

Bringing together unique experiences as an athlete, coach, and physical therapist, Coach Nelson-Siciliano is excited to return to her Alma Mater as head coach to carry on the excellent legacy of OCC Cross Country.

In Coach Jen's second year as coach of OCC Cross Country, the Vikings' Men's team captured the 2018 NJCAA Region XIX Championship. Additionally, Jen was named the 2018 NJCAA Region XIX Men's Cross Country Coach of the Year.