Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie joins Greene at UK

Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie joins Greene at UK
(PHOTO: UKATHLETICS.COM)

University of Kentucky (UK) Head coach Lonnie Greene added one of The Bahamas’ most notable track and field figures to his staff yesterday.

Green, who is tasked with revamping the Wildcats track and field and cross-country programs, brought on Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie as an assistant coach for the 2018-19 season.

“I want to be one of the first to welcome Coach Debbie Ferguson Mackenzie to The University of Kentucky,” Greene said.

“She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in this noble profession of ours. I am excited for her to get started on our staff.”

Ferguson McKenzie joins the UK staff after spending the past four seasons at the University of Houston. She made an immediate impact when she joined the staff before the 2014-15 season, leading sophomore Bria Carter to an American Athletic Conference Individual Championship in the 60m during the indoor season.

“I’m thankful to Coach Lonnie Green and the UK administration for giving me the opportunity to work with the Wildcats.” Ferguson McKenzie said.

“Being able to work within the SEC is an honour and a privilege. I want to also thank Houston and every one I worked with there. Now I’m so honoured and excited to be with UK.

“I’ve always heard great things about Coach Greene, particularly his loyalty and pedigree. I know I’m joining one awesome staff. The group of coaches he’s assembled, as well as support staff, are very exciting, positive, spiritual and grounded. I’m looking forward to working to take Kentucky to great heights.”

As an athlete, Ferguson McKenzie won 52 medals in international competition including her Olympic and world championship medals and was a 10-time Bahamas national champion in the 100- and 200-meter sprints.

About Randy Smith

Randy Smith is the producer of the widely-watched local television show “Beyond The Headlines” and the web content manager of Eyewitness News. He joined Eyewitness News as a sportscaster in 2018, a role he still performs, and has previously covered a slew of international sporting events, including the 2015 Pan American Games, the Nike EYBL Showcase, several IAAF World Relays, the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, the Commonwealth Youth Games, the Bahamas Bowl and multiple CARIFTA Swimming and Track & Field Championships. Randy has been recognized by the Bahamas Press Club with awards for “Best Sports Broadcast” as a sportscaster and “Best TV Talk Show” as a producer.