News Summary

Great Falls bids farewell to Bob Stingley, the beloved head coach of the Great Falls High Bison Cross Country team, who retires after an impressive 27-year career. Stingley’s impact on the community and young athletes is profound, highlighted by his recent accomplishment of leading the boys’ team to victory in the 2023 Montana Boys State Championship. As the program welcomes new head coach Dave Kilian, the legacy of Stingley’s dedication to fostering talent and passion for running will continue to inspire future generations.

Great Falls Says Goodbye to a Coaching Legend

Great Falls is buzzing with excitement and nostalgia as Bob Stingley, the beloved head coach of the Great Falls High Bison Cross Country team, has decided to hang up his coaching shoes after an outstanding 27-year career. Stingley’s journey with the Bisons has been nothing short of remarkable, and he has left an indelible mark on the community and the many young athletes he coached over the years.

A Farewell to Remember

Stingley’s retirement announcement brings a wave of mixed emotions to the team and its supporters. His time at the helm of the Bison Cross Country program has been filled with triumphs, including his recent achievement of guiding the boys’ team to victory in the 2023 Montana Boys State Championship. This win not only added to the rich history of the program but also marked a significant milestone as it was the boys’ first state championship since 1979. Such victories have made Stingley a local hero, and his dedication has inspired countless athletes to run their hearts out.

But it isn’t just the titles that define Stingley’s coaching style; it’s his passion for the sport and his love for nurturing young talent. Stingley has expressed his desire to stay involved with the kids and the local track community, hoping to contribute in an advisory role and continue his advocacy for “cross country running.”

Exciting Times Ahead with a New Coach

With Stingley’s departure, the Bison Cross Country program is all set to welcome a new face at the helm. The Great Falls Public Schools Athletic Department has officially appointed Dave Kilian as the new head coach. Kilian has been a fixture in the coaching scene for the past four years as Stingley’s assistant. His smooth transition into the role is highly recommended, ensuring that the students remain in familiar hands.

Kilian is not a stranger to running, having picked up the sport himself in the fourth grade. Before coming to Great Falls, he had a successful coaching stint at Sherwood High School in Oregon, showcasing his ability to foster a winning team culture. With a background rich in both high school and college-level running, he aims to create a positive atmosphere, encouraging student-athletes to be competitive while nurturing their love for the sport.

Plans for the Future

As Kilian prepares for his new chapter, his focus is on reinforcing team depth, particularly after waving goodbye to a group of talented senior athletes who graduated recently. To build a strong foundation, he intends to conduct outreach work with local youth track programs and soccer teams, actively recruiting and cultivating future running stars.

Kilian possesses a vision where positivity and mentorship come first, reflecting his self-described role as an “encourager.” His journey as the newly minted head coach kicks off officially with practice in August 2023, and the community is eager to see the direction he steers the team.

What Lies Ahead for Coach Stingley?

Even with Stingley moving on, his legacy at Great Falls High is undeniable. Over the years, he’s coached several state trophy-winning teams, and his accolades include prestigious awards like the Montana Coaches Association Coach of the Year and the United States Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association boys’ Coach of the Year in 2023. Those achievements are a testament to his coaching prowess and heartfelt dedication to the sport.

The job listing for the head coach position for the Great Falls High cross country team is currently up for grabs on the Great Falls Public Schools website, allowing for the next wave of talent to step up and carry on the legacy that Stingley helped build.

As Great Falls bids farewell to Bob Stingley, there’s a comforting feeling in the air knowing that his spirit and influence will continue to thrive within the community and the track, keeping the Bison heart racing for years to come.

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