Heidelberg University announces Bill Cooper named head track & field coach

From April 26, 2023 post.

Heidelberg University Athletic Director Greg Cooper announced Wednesday the hiring of Bill Cooper, a 1996 'Berg graduate, as head coach of men's and women's track & field.  Bill takes the reins of the track & field programs from Brian Grime, who will remain as head cross country coach and retain assistant track coach duties.

"I am excited to welcome Bill back to his alma mater. He was exactly the type of candidate we were looking for to help invigorate the track program," said Greg Cooper. "As an alum and experienced Division III head coach, his background will help propel this program forward. I look forward to the future under his leadership."

Bill Cooper returns to Heidelberg after head coaching stints at Muskingum, Trine, Randolph and, most recently, Sewanee. He led his teams to success on the track and in the classroom at each stop, highlighted by earning Old Dominion Athletic Conference Coach of the Year after the 2015-16 indoor season.

"I'm grateful to (Heidelberg President) Dr. (Rob) Huntington, Greg, and the entire search committee for giving me the opportunity to have my career come full-circle back to my alma mater," said Cooper, who played soccer and ran track during as a student-athlete at Heidelberg.  "It is evident to me that there is a passion for athletics at Heidelberg and an investment in providing opportunities for teams to experience success."

Cooper earned All-American honors in the 400-meter dash at the 1996 Division III Outdoor Track & Field Championships, placing sixth. He held the school record in the 400 for more than two decades.  

In total, Cooper was a two-time OAC champion and earned all-conference honors seven times.

"I can't wait to be back at Heidelberg and to start working with a great group of student-athletes to build a competitive program," said Cooper.  

Cooper's tenure at Heidelberg will start on May 1. 

Original source can be found here.