At the conclusion of the 2023 cross country season, Riverwalk Academy’s Mark Wilson was named the 2023 Region 3-A Boys Coach of the Year by fellow boys cross country coaches of Region 3-A.
“Being named region coach of the year is an honor I cherish deeply,” said Coach Wilson. “I am incredibly fortunate to have been guided and supported by exceptional coaches and an exceptional athletic director, who share equal credit for this recognition. Additionally, I am forever grateful for the positive role models in my life who instilled in me the values of sportsmanship and the importance of hard work, values that have shaped my coaching philosophy and approach.”
Riverwalk Academy's boys and girls cross country teams capped off their most successful season in school history with impressive performances at the regional and state championships. Last month, the boys team claimed first place in the region, while the girls team secured a well-deserved second-place finish. Their outstanding performance continued at the 1A State Championship meet last week, where the boys team earned a commendable 6th place finish in the state, and the girls team followed closely behind with a 12th place finish..
“Coach Wilson is an outstanding coach who understands that competing is more than just winning,” said Mr. Ball, Riverwalk Academy’s Athletic Director. “While he has led his team to success on the cross country courses, he is committed to building character and instilling leadership qualities in his athletes. His leadership helps instill a sense of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship in his runners."
The schools of Region 3-A are CA Johnson, Governor's School, Great Falls, Lewisville, McBee, Midlands STEM, and Riverwalk Academy.