CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Hurricane boys track coach Eric Cooper and Doddridge County girls track coach Craig Kellar were named this week as West Virginia’s track coaches of the year by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association.
Cooper helped lead Hurricane to its first boys track state championship back in May.
“It’s an honor,” Cooper said. “I didn’t expect it. But looking back at some of the past coaches on the list to receive this honor, it’s quite a feeling. I’m blessed to being able to work with the amazing group of guys and girls that we have.
“I look forward to coming to practice everyday,” he continued. “We’re staying
hungry. We want to be in the mix each and every year and take care of the little things, day-to-day.”
Kellar, meanwhile, helped lead Doddridge County to its first girls track state
championship in Class A since 2007 — a stretch where the Bulldogs won five straight titles and seven of
eight from 2000 to 2007.
Jonna Ferrell led the way for Doddridge County this past year, winning the 100, 200, 400 and long jump. Ferrell set records in both the 200 and 400.
Cooper and Kellar will both receive a trophy from the USTFCCCA recognizing their achievements. Both will also be in consideration for the National High School Track & Field Coach of the Year award, which will be announced later this month for both boys and girls.