Beyond the Power Four: Hidden Gems in College Athletics with Tony Crider Wallace State Cross Country

Airey Bros.'s Radio

Join us as we shine a light on the unsung heroes of college athletics. In this episode, we sit down with Coach Tony Crider, head cross country coach at Wallace State Community College in Alabama. Wallace State has quietly become a powerhouse in the Alabama Community College Conference (ACCC), winning seven consecutive conference titles and making waves at the national level. Coach Crider shares insights on building a championship culture, recruiting hidden talent, and the value of community colleges in shaping the future of student-athletes. If you're a high school runner or a sports enthusiast looking for inspiring stories outside the Power Four, this episode is for you.
Episode Highlights:

• [00:12] Why showcasing schools outside the Power Four matters.
• [01:28] Meet Coach Tony Crider: Wallace State's cross country dynasty.
• [02:56] The origin story: How Coach Crider's love for running and coaching began.
• [05:21] Lessons from ball sports that translate to cross country success.
• [10:59] The formula for Wallace State's seven straight ACCC titles.
• [19:55] Recruiting philosophy: Good people, good runners.
• [25:54] Life lessons and why community college is a hidden gem for student-athletes.
• [31:15] Dorm life, early practices, and creating a winning culture.
• [47:00] Meet Luke Kennedy: Wallace State’s All-American standout.
• [53:12] Coach Crider’s call to action: "We need more women runners!"
• [1:06:00] The secret to balancing performance, rest, and recruiting year-round.

Links and Resources:

• Wallace State Cross Country on Facebook
• Instagram
• Coach Crider's Contact: 205.275.1200
• Recruiting Questionnaire
• Learn more about Wallace State Community College