By Jason Nieuwenhuis
Sports writer
In a testament to his dedication, leadership, and unmatched success in the world of cross country, cross country and track Coach Kelly Beck was awarded a Citation of Congratulations from the Oklahoma State Legislature at the request of Sen. Kristin Thompson, R-Edmond and Rep. Denise Crosswhite Hader, R-Piedmont Tuesday night at the Wildcat Athletic Center.
This recognition comes as a result of Beck’s exceptional coaching career, which has seen him lead his teams to five state championships, eight runner-up finishes, and an impressive 15 regional titles. His accolades and the success of his athletes on and off the field speak to his exceptional abilities as both a mentor and a coach.
Throughout his career, Beck has established himself as a dominant force in high school sports, particularly in cross country, where his teams have consistently been a powerhouse. His teams have not only succeeded at the local and state levels but have also excelled in national meets, further cementing his legacy as one of the top coaches in the country.
Coach Beck’s coaching philosophy has been built around the idea of fostering an environment where athletes can reach their full potential—both as competitors and as individuals. This approach has proven to be successful time and time again, with a total of 45 athletes earning all-state honors under his guidance.
Beck’s outstanding career has also been recognized on the national level. In recognition of his exceptional leadership, Coach Beck was named the USTFCCCA Boys Coach of the Year in 2018 and the USTFCCCA Girls Coach of the Year in 2022. These awards are granted to coaches who demonstrate excellence in leadership and performance, and Beck’s recognition on both the boys’ and girls’ sides is a testament to his versatility and ability to guide athletes of all backgrounds and skill sets.
He was named the National Federation of State High School Associations Boys Coach of the Year in both 2018 and 2023. This award highlights Beck’s impact not only within Oklahoma but across the United States, as his coaching style and success continue to inspire coaches and athletes nationwide.
The Citation of Congratulations from the Oklahoma Legislature serves as a fitting honor for Beck’s contributions to high school athletics and the state’s sports community. As a coach who has achieved remarkable success while fostering a positive environment for his athletes, Beck’s leadership has influenced countless athletes and will have impact far outside of Piedmont, OK. This recognition only adds to the impressive list of accolades that Beck has amassed throughout his career, solidifying his place among the most influential and accomplished coaches in Wildcat history.
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