SPASH names new head coaches for girls cross country team

By Patrick Lynn

STEVENS POINT – Stevens Point Area Senior High has appointed Zoe Browne and Pat Leahy as co-head coaches of the girls cross country team, Athletic Director David Hauser announced.

Browne, a 2005 SPASH graduate, earned four letters in both cross country and track & field during her high school career, contributing to state championship teams in 2002 and 2003. She later competed at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and has been an assistant coach for SPASH girls cross country and track & field since 2012. Browne teaches art at P.J. Jacobs Junior High.

Leahy, a 1989 SPASH graduate, began coaching in 1992 as an assistant for the boys cross country program and became the distance coach for boys track & field in 1994. He transitioned to the girls cross country program in 2009. Last season, the school named SPASH’s home course at Standing Rocks Park the “Leahy XC Course” in recognition of his efforts in maintaining and improving the site. He also works as a lead teacher at the Portage County Juvenile Detention Center.

“We are fortunate to have Zoe and Pat prepared and eager to assume leadership of this program,” Hauser said. “They bring a wealth of experience as former competitive runners and coaches. Their commitment to the sport and to enhancing the success of our girls cross country program is invaluable.”

In a joint statement, Browne and Leahy said they were honored to take on the leadership role.

“Having worked as assistants to Mike ‘Coachie’ Olson, we have gained significant insight into fostering a successful and positive team environment. Our goal is to develop competitive runners while creating a welcoming atmosphere where girls can build confidence, develop a healthy outlook on fitness, and support one another.”

Both coaches bring decades of experience and a shared dedication to continuing SPASH’s tradition of excellence in cross country.