By Trey Hunter
Sports Editor
Kelly Beck has helped turn the Piedmont cross country program into a perennial power over the last two seasons.
His efforts, including leading the Wildcats to the Class 5A state championship last year, were recognized this week as the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association named him the 2018-19 Boys Cross Country Coach of the Year.
“It’s a good feeling,” Beck said. “But really it’s about the kids, especially last year. And not just how good and talented we were, but also their leadership with the three seniors. It made my job much easier.”
Beck’s Wildcats dominated Class 5A last season, winning the state meet by more than 40 points over second-place Guthrie. All seven of the team’s racers finished inside the top-15. Piedmont is considered the favorite once again this year, coming off a win at pre-state at Edmond Santa Fe last weekend.
“It proves we’re doing things the right way,” Beck said. “With a sport like cross country you have to build from within. If you get a program that is successful, younger kids will take notice and will want to be a part of it. That was my goal when I took the job.”
Beck received a special text message after being notified of his accomplishment. It was from his father who reached out to congratulate him.
“He texted me to tell me that he’s proud of me,” Beck said. “That was a cool feeling because even in your 40s you want to make your dad proud.”
Beck and the Wildcats continue their march towards a second straight state title this weekend in the 2019 Chile Pepper Festival in Fayetteville, Ark.
