FAIRBANKS - The University of Alaska Fairbanks has announced the promotion of Randi Loudin to Head Coach of the Alaska Nanooks rifle team. Loudin steps into the role following the retirement of head coach Will Anti, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the program she has helped elevate to national prominence.
Loudin has been an integral part of the Nanooks rifle team since the 2019-20 season, when she began as a Graduate Assistant. Most recently, she served as Assistant Coach under Anti, contributing to one of the most successful stretches in program history.
A 2019 graduate of Ole Miss, Loudin was one of the most decorated shooters in Rebel history. During her collegiate career, she earned three Collegiate Rifle Coaches Association (CRCA) Scholastic All-American honors while elevating Ole Miss rifle.
"Today is a great day for Nanooks Athletics as we announce Coach Randi Loudin as the new head of our storied rifle program," said Dr. Brock Anundson, Director of Athletics for the Alaska Nanooks. "Randi brings proven leadership, a commitment to excellence, and a clear vision for building on our championship culture – on the range, in the classroom, and throughout our community. We're excited for what lies ahead and look forward to a bright future under her guidance."
Alongside Anti, Loudin helped the Nanooks reclaim their place as a national powerhouse, returning them to the national stage in 2021 with a fifth-place finish. The following year, they reached the podium with a third-place result, setting multiple team and national records along the way.
The apogee as an assistant came in 2023, when the Nanooks captured their 11th NCAA National Championship. That season also saw Rylan Kissell win the Individual Air Rifle National Title. The Nanooks followed that up with consecutive third-place national finishes and captured the 2025 Smallbore National Championship. Most recently, Cecelia Ossi and Rachael Charles went one-two in the 2025 Individual Smallbore final, with Ossi claiming the title.
Alongside the team's success, there has been plenty to celebrate individually with 10 Nanooks earning a combined 50 All-American honors since 2020, two Elite 90 winners and a number of Scholastic All-Americans.Â
As Loudin steps into her new role, she does so with a championship pedigree, a deep understanding of the program's culture, and a vision to sustain and build upon the standard of excellence that defines Nanooks rifle.
"I am thrilled to be stepping into this position and continuing my journey with the Nanooks!" said Loudin after her elevation. "After six years as the assistant coach and thousands of hours on this range, it truly feels like home. Working alongside some of the most talented student-athletes from around the world has been an incredible experience, and I'm honored to lead this program as Head Coach next year with such a great group. What makes this team special is the commitment to doing the small things well—whether it's refining technique, supporting one another every day, or learning how to live and travel in one of the most unique places in the world. We are constantly adapting and refining, and I'm excited to keep building on the strong foundation we've created together. I'm grateful to Will and to those who have mentored me and helped shape the identity of this team, and I look forward to continuing to build with this amazing group and department. I also want to thank Brock Anundson and Chancellor White for their trust and support—it means a great deal to me as I step into this new role. Go 'Nooks!"
Looking ahead to the 2025–26 season, Loudin inherits a veteran roster rich with experience, leadership, and talent. With returning All-Americans, rising stars, and a unified team culture, the Nanooks are poised to remain at the forefront of collegiate rifle. Under Loudin's leadership, the program is set to enter a new era—grounded in tradition but driven by innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
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