Iowa State extends Jackson through 2015

The Cyclones announced the extension Wednesday, a week before the NCAA Championships begin in nearby Des Moines.

Jackson, a former Olympic gold medalist, took over for current Penn State coach Cael Sanderson four seasons ago.

Though the program has struggled since Sanderson’s departure, Iowa State finished second at the recent Big 12 meet and doubled its dual meet victories from 2012.

Iowa State athletic director Jamie Pollard says he is encouraged by the progress of the program’s underclassmen. Seven of the team’s 10 starters this season were freshmen or sophomores.

Iowa State says full details of Jackson’s new contract will be released later.