Coach Scott Ferrell set to retire after 29 years with GlenOak girls cross country
CANTON, Ohio — After nearly three decades of dedication and success, Scott Ferrell, head coach of GlenOak Girls Cross Country, is set to hang up his whistle at the end of this season. Ferrell, who has coached for 29 years, leaves behind a legacy rooted in both his love for the sport and his commitment to the athletes who have run under his guidance.
A former runner himself at Colonel Crawford High School and Malone University, Ferrell has led GlenOak’s team through countless victories. Among the highlights of his tenure was the team’s 2006 season, where they were crowned Regional Champions and finished 3rd in the state. More recently, GlenOak secured the Federal League Championship, marking another high point in Ferrell’s storied career.
“Our long runs are done with great focus, and our interval training helps with pacing for a 5k,” Ferrell explained when asked about the keys to the team’s success. But for him, it’s not just about the physical training; it’s about fostering a belief in their own abilities, especially after tough losses. “I remind them of their training and the hard work that has gotten them here.”
Ferrell’s proudest coaching moment came during that unforgettable 2006 State Championship, but it’s the lifelong impact he’s had on his runners that means the most. “The athletes want to be successful,” he said. “Some of them just take a little more steering in the right direction.”
As Ferrell prepares for retirement, he reflects on the legacy he hopes to leave behind. “I hope I am remembered for leaving the program in a place that allows for continued success and keeps the traditions set before me,” he shared. “The hundreds of girls that have run in this program have touched my life and made me a better person. My time at GlenOak will be cherished for my lifetime.”
It’s the end of an era for GlenOak Girls Cross Country, but Ferrell’s legacy is sure to inspire for many years to come.
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