Baltes named Women’s National Coach of the Year

The United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) announced on Thursday that Grand Valley State University cross country head coach Jerry Baltes has been named the Division II Women’s National Coach of the Year for the third time in four seasons.

Baltes led GVSU to a 2013 Division II National Championship. He also took home the award—and national titles—in 2010 and 2012.

Six of his runners finished as All-Americans this season.

He continues to improve on the dynasty he has put together during his 14 seasons at the helm for the Lakers. He has won 11 national coach of the year awards between cross country and indoor and outdoor track.

The men’s squad placed second in the nation this year, which was good enough for the best finish in school history. Four Lakers closed out the season as All-Americans.