Run it back! CRC to reestablish cross country program in 2023

December 1, 2021

by Dustin Semore, Sports Information Director

PARAGOULD, Ark. – Dormant since the close of the 2019-20 season, Crowley's Ridge College announces the return of its cross country program beginning in the fall of 2023. Helming the return of running is a familiar face on the CRC campus - though new in the athletic department - Shannon Beasley.

Currently on the Crowley's Ridge faculty as an assistant professor of history, Beasley will continue his teaching duties on a part-time basis while spending a majority of his time recruiting and competing with a target start of August 2023.

A lifelong runner and member of the United States Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association, Beasley is certified as VDOT coach under the tutelage of Dr. Jack Daniels in addition to training under Dr. Tom "Tinman" Schwartz's Final Surge program. A certified personal trainer, Beasley is the owner of Paragould's Victory Fitness Studio. 

"I'm tremendously excited and thankful that CRC Athletic Director Paul McFadden and CRC President Richard Johnson have chosen me to head up the restart of XC here," said Coach Beasley. "I believe we have the finest administration, faculty, staff, and coaches there is."

In his hunt for his first recruiting class, Beasley said he is not necessarily looking for speed alone. He says, "I can teach speed. I can coach you there. But what's your motivation? If you have all the speed in the world, all the ability in the world, but little motivation, little drive, you'll likely never be a champion. Do you love to run?" Beasley continues, "Give me the guys and gals who love to run, who have some ability, who are coachable, who have a great work ethic, and who have great character."

His excitement nearly palpable, Coach Beasley beams, "We want to win. Who doesn't? There is great value in competition. There is great dignity found in overcoming challenges. If you take away the thrill of victory and the utter bitterness of defeat, you miss much of the essence of sports. We perform how we live. I think we CHOOSE to be poor... or average... or excellent."

Athletic Director Paul McFadden spoke of his excitement of adding Beasley to his coaching staff by saying, "Shannon and I have been talking about this for some time now and he has committed to heading our cross country programs. I couldn't be more excited about the direction he will lead us in the Continental Athletic Conference and the NAIA. Shannon loves running and will thoroughly enjoy coaching runners. He is already on campus and familiar with CRC and is loved by our student body."

Both male and female runners looking to join the Crowley's Ridge cross country program are invited to fill out the recruitment form found here. Prospects can also contact Coach Beasley directly at sbeasley@crc.edu.