Bowdoin College

Ben Raphelson has served as head coach of the Bowdoin men’s and women’s cross country programs since 2021, while also coaching the Polar Bear distance runners in track & field. In his first season, he guided four runners to the NCAA Division III Championships—the program’s most qualifiers since 2012—and in 2025 led the Bowdoin women to their first team appearance at the NCAA Championships since 2007.


At Bowdoin

• In first season, coached four runners to qualify for the NCAA DIII Cross Country Championship, the most since 2012. 
• Has led 18 runners to NCAA Championship qualification, including the 2025 women's team's first trip to nationals as a program since 2007.
• Under his leadership both squads have posted multiple top-five finishes at NCAA regionals during his tenure. 

Coaching Resume

• 2021-present: Head Coach of Cross Country at Bowdoin College; Assistant Coach of Track & Field at Bowdoin College
• 2014-2020: Head Coach of Cross Country and Track & Field at California Institute of Technology
• 2012-2013: Head Coach of Cross Country at Huntingdon College; Assistant Coach of Track & Field at Huntingdon College
• 2011: Assistant Coach of Cross Country at Williams College
• 2010: Interim Head Coach of Cross Country at Smith College
• 2009-2011: Assistant Cross Country and Track & Field Coach at Smith College
• 2008-2009: Assistant Track & Field Coach at Grinnell College 

Education & Certifications

• Graduated from Grinnell College in 2008
  • Bachelor’s Degree in History
• Earned Master’s Degree in Exercise & Sports Studies from Smith College in 2011

Athletic Career

• Competed in Cross Country and Track & Field at Grinnell