FAIRBANKS – The Alaska Nanooks rifle program and head coach Randi Loudin are proud to announce the hiring of Cecelia Ossi as the team's new assistant coach. Ossi joins the staff after completing a standout graduate season with the Nanooks in 2024-25, highlighted by an individual national title in smallbore and a string of record-setting performances.
"We are thrilled to welcome Cecelia Ossi to the Nanooks as our new assistant coach!" said Loudin. "Cecelia made a meaningful impact on our team culture last year with her drive, attention to detail, and outstanding performance. She has consistently demonstrated leadership – whether as an athlete, teammate, or coach for junior shooters – and brings a wealth of knowledge to this role. While we initially thought we'd only have her with the program for one year, using her final year of eligibility, I'm incredibly excited to see her continue to grow here in Fairbanks as a leader and valued member of our community. We look forward to all she'll bring in this next chapter with the Nanooks."
Ossi capped off her collegiate career in style, claiming the 2025 NCAA Individual Smallbore National Championship with a finals score of 464.7. Her season was filled with highlights, including personal bests of 599 in air rifle, 597 in smallbore, and a 1196 aggregate — all set on February 1 against Kentucky. That 1196 aggregate score set a new Nanooks program record, while her 597 in smallbore tied the program record. She posted an aggregate score of 1190 or higher in six of her final seven matches and played a key role in Alaska's fourth PRC title. After graduating, Ossi added another individual title to her accolades, winning the USA Shooting National Championships in women's air rifle.
Before transferring to Alaska, Ossi competed at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where she was a four-time All-American, 2023 NCAA smallbore national champion, and team captain all four seasons. She holds the Cornhuskers' school record in smallbore (597) and was named the program's Student-Athlete of the Year in 2023.
"I am extremely excited and grateful for this opportunity to give back to a program and people who have given so much to me over the last year," said Ossi. "I hope to carry on the Nanook legacy and continue to foster an environment that grows excellent athletes and exceptional individuals who leave a positive mark on the people and places they visit. Roll 'Nooks!"
Originally from New Jersey, Ossi completed her Master of Business Administration at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
With Ossi stepping into her new role, the Nanooks continue to build upon their tradition of excellence both on the range and in developing future leaders.
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