January 19, 2024
U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association honor Gilbert XC leader for second time
Gilbert head boys’ cross country coach Aaron Thomas earned another prestigious award on Thursday when he was named the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association 2023 boys’ high school cross country coach of the year for the state of Iowa.
It is the second time Thomas has received the award from the national association. He was also named the Iowa coach of the year in 2018.
“This one is definitely a reflection of the program,” Thomas said. “It’s a reflection of what the guys did this fall … when you think of all the great coaches and programs year in and year out, being recognized is definitely an honor.”
Thomas guided the Tigers to their fourth Class 3A state championship over the past 10 seasons back in late October. Gilbert placed four runners in the top 15 individually en route to the team crown.
Thomas also led the Tigers to state titles in 2014, 2017 and 2018.
