Jeff Howard Named 2025 Ohio Boys Cross Country Coach of the Year

Woodridge High School head coach Jeff Howard has been named the 2025 Ohio Boys Cross Country Coach of the Year by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA), one of the most prestigious honors in high school distance running.

The USTFCCCA Coach of the Year Award recognizes the outstanding efforts of the nation’s top high school coaches. Following the creation of separate awards for cross country and track & field in 2014, the association now honors state-by-state winners for both boys and girls programs. From those state recipients, one boys coach and one girls coach are ultimately selected as National High School Coach of the Year.

Howard’s selection as Ohio’s Boys Cross Country Coach of the Year reflects not only competitive success, but also his commitment to athlete development, consistency, and building a culture rooted in accountability and pride. Under his leadership, Woodridge cross country has continued to be a model program—one that emphasizes preparation, resilience, and representing the Bulldog tradition the right way.

The USTFCCCA High School Coach of the Year Award Program is presented by the United States Marine Corps, highlighting excellence, leadership, and dedication—qualities that Coach Howard brings to the program every day.

Congratulations to Coach Jeff Howard on this well-earned recognition and thank you for the lasting impact you continue to have on Woodridge student-athletes.