A native of Wisconsin, DeVries competed collegiately for and graduated from New Mexico Highlands University earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history in 1981 and 1983 respectively. His master’s degree was conferred with honors. After being named Rocky Mountain Conference Scholar Athlete in 1980, DeVries assisted with the Cowboy cross-country program for two seasons, helping Highlands achieve a top-ten NAIA nationals finish in 1981.

DeVries began his high school teaching and coaching career at Magdalena High School, where he took over a struggling track program. Within several years, the track team became the pre-emanant track program in the district after capturing the district title numerous times as well as individual event state champions.

Following a 10-year high school stint, DeVries returned to Las Vegas in 1992, and took over a Highlands cross-country, which was in shambles after seeing four coaches in a three year period.

In his 10 years at the helm, the Highlands cross-country program has re-established itself as one of the top performing programs at the regional and national level.

DeVries led his team to a top ten NCAA Division II finish in 1998. He coached All-American athletes in 1998, 1999 and 2000 and has twice been named the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Coach-of-the-Year.

E-mail Coach DeVries - rdevries@nmhu.edu