McNeil High School Boys Cross Country Head Coach Glenn Roberts has been named the recipient of the 2016 Southwest Sectional Coach of the Year award for the sport of Boys Cross Country from the National Federation of State High School (NFHS) Coaches Association. The Southwest section includes states of Arkansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.
Roberts is being recognized for his contribution to high school athletics, which include seasons coached, community involvement, school involvement, certifications and memberships in professional associations and his philosophy of athletics.
“I work to keep students engaged and focused on the benefits of commitment,” Roberts said. “If you’re committed to what you do, manage your time and minimize distractions then everything else will fall into place.”
Roberts has officiated and coached cross country and track for nearly 30 years. He joined the McNeil coaching staff in 1999 and began organizing the McNeil Cross Country Invitational. Held in October, the McNeil Cross Country Invitational attracts up to 600 schools to participate in the event. Roberts donates a portion of the team entry fees back to McNeil’s clubs and organizations that provide the nearly 300 volunteers it takes to execute the event.
“This award is a testament to Coach Roberts’ countless hours of dedication to the sport of cross country, the students of McNeil High School and the State of Texas,” Round Rock ISD Athletic Director Dwayne Weirich said. “Glenn is an outstanding coach, mentor, and teacher. He is instrumental in leading the McNeil Invitational — the largest Cross Country meet in the state, held at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock.”
Roberts has earned coaching certifications from USA Track and Field summer programs, is a member of the High School Coaches Association and various cross country and track organizations.
