Spoon River College is bringing back a cross-country program, with the season set to begin in the fall. Chase Fisher has been hired as the head coach, and he has already recruited 15 incoming freshmen to be on the team.
Fisher brings coaching experience at both the high school and college level, and says he’s looking for members with a high level of commitment to be the best version of themselves they can be, and to be committed to the team. “It’s easy to buy into something when everyone around you has also bought into it, not only for results, but also for relationships.”
Fisher credits his high school coach for having that type of mindset, and for inspiring him to become a coach.
“I was lucky to be brought up through a program that was more of a family than a team, where everyone cared for each other, and fought for each other, and those relationships last forever,” said Fisher, who a decade later still talks weekly with his former coach. “And two of teammates were my groomsmen in my wedding. A family like that is what I’m striving to build at Spoon River College.”
Fisher also intends to continually expand his coaching knowledge, and recently traveled to New York City for his USA Track and Field (USATF) certification. He also noted that they will be adding track and a half-marathon to the program.
“We are excited to bring back cross-country, and excited that Coach Fisher will be leading it,” said John Bassett, athletic director and head softball coach at Spoon River College. “His experience and enthusiasm will be an invaluable resource, and we look forward to a fun and competitive first season.”
Originally from Dixon, Fisher and wife Liz will be residing in Canton, and they are expecting their first child in August. “I am excited to be a Snapper and I look forward to joining the list of successful SRC athletic teams.”
