Kameron Blanding resigns as head coach of Bethel Cross Country
Kameron Blanding resigns as head coach of Bethel Cross Country
After one season in North Newton, Blanding departs for Averett University.
On Tuesday, sources confirmed to The Collegian that Kameron Blanding had resigned as the head coach of the Bethel cross country program after one season. This was later confirmed by Blanding and Athletic Director Tony Hoops.
Blanding was also an assistant for the Bethel track and field program.
“I want to emphasize that Bethel has been nothing but great to me,” Blanding said. “I loved who I worked with, who I worked for, as well as all of my athletes. I resigned to accept a coaching position that will provide me with an opportunity to take on more responsibilities while providing for me and my family.”
In his one season at the helm, Blanding coached up the men’s side to multiple top-15 finishes in a select few races and led them to an eight-place finish in the KCAC Championships. On the women’s side, he coached them well enough to finish 12th in the KCAC Championships.
“Coach Blanding was a driven person with a growth mindset,” Hoops said. “He was passionate about the workouts he created to help enable our distance runners to reach their full potential. He was very committed to the program with a great work ethic. [Blanding] made a decision that was best for his young family, which I respect. I wish him all the best as he progresses in his career path.”
Sophomore Tobin Wise from Pleasant Hill, Mo. was one of Blanding’s runners. “Coach gave me a boost in my running performance with the training plans he instilled,” Wise said. “I’m thankful for what he's done for the program and how he’ll leave a lasting impression on us distance runners.”
Blanding has accepted the Director of Track and Field/Cross Country position at Averett University in Danville, Va. — an NCAA Division III institution. Public knowledge confirms that a search for Blanding’s replacement will take place as soon as possible with track currently in season for multi-sport athletes.
“I want to express my gratitude to Tony for giving me this opportunity and I hope nothing but the best for the team and for Bethel in the future,” Blanding said. “I only hope I was able to leave a positive impact after my time here. The year that I was here had its fair share of ups and downs but the athletes made all of the experiences memorable. I was fortunate enough to assist multiple athletes break personal records throughout my time here and I am confident that this will continue with the amazing group that is here.”