Coach Mike Burleson honored for commitment to cross-country
BY AMELIA MCAVOY
March. 8, 2021
Every year, a select group of coaches from the state of Maine are chosen to receive the Maine Coach of the Year award. The recipients of the award are voted for by the National Federation of High School Coaches. This year, Bonny Eagle’s very own girls’ cross country coach, Mike Burleson was recognized. Coach Burleson has only been coaching the girls’ XC team for three years, since 2018, but in that time he has brought the school two state championships and one regional championship.
It is easy to only see the success that Coach Burleson has brought to his team and connect it to his award, but his coaching talents go beyond the championships. The state titles are important, but in Athletic Director, Mr Eric Curtis’ opinion, the most important part is “the dedication he gives our kids and all the support he gives them. He puts in countless hours planning and supporting our athletes.”
Delaney Hesler, a junior member of the cross country team, echoes this sentiment. She says, “He is a great coach who pushes us to be our best physically and mentally, while also keeping the sport fun … his constant support and training has helped [the cross country team] numerous times each season and has allowed [them] to consistently compete at a high level.” Congratulations Coach Burleson on your well deserved award, and good luck on your next season!
March. 8, 2021
Every year, a select group of coaches from the state of Maine are chosen to receive the Maine Coach of the Year award. The recipients of the award are voted for by the National Federation of High School Coaches. This year, Bonny Eagle’s very own girls’ cross country coach, Mike Burleson was recognized. Coach Burleson has only been coaching the girls’ XC team for three years, since 2018, but in that time he has brought the school two state championships and one regional championship.
It is easy to only see the success that Coach Burleson has brought to his team and connect it to his award, but his coaching talents go beyond the championships. The state titles are important, but in Athletic Director, Mr Eric Curtis’ opinion, the most important part is “the dedication he gives our kids and all the support he gives them. He puts in countless hours planning and supporting our athletes.”
Delaney Hesler, a junior member of the cross country team, echoes this sentiment. She says, “He is a great coach who pushes us to be our best physically and mentally, while also keeping the sport fun … his constant support and training has helped [the cross country team] numerous times each season and has allowed [them] to consistently compete at a high level.” Congratulations Coach Burleson on your well deserved award, and good luck on your next season!