Longtime Frontier boys track coach Walt Flynn was honored following the spring season.
Flynn was named the Coach of the Year in boys track by the Massachusetts State Track Coaches Association (MSTCA) after leading the Redhawks to a 6-0 record.
It’s his first time winning the award.
“That was quite surprise,” Flynn said. “I was stunned. It was nice it was like a bonus. It’s nice to get the tip of the hat.”
Behind Flynn’s leadership, Frontier won the Intercounty League following its unbeaten season. Flynn also sent four athletes to the West D2 meet, with Erich Brown making it in the 800 and high jump, Jesse Kurkolonis in the 110 hurdles and javelin, Jack Vecellio in the pole vault and 400 hurdles and Jackie Phong in the shot put and discus.
Flynn began coaching track in Connecticut in 1977 in Old Saybrook, making this season being his 44th year coaching.
He came to Frontier in 1990 and has spent the last 31 years coaching the Redhawks.
“I have such a great time coaching,” Flynn said. “Getting this award was just an add on. I get to work with great kids and other great coaches. It was great to be recognized and part of that is the kids have been doing a great job too.”
Flynn was notified he had won the award from fellow longtime Frontier cross country and girls track coach Bob Smith, which made the announcement all the more memorable for him.
“I don’t always get the mailing stuff from the MSTCA,” Flynn said. “This time was no different. I got a congratulations text from Bob and I just said ‘what?’ He then told me so I got informed by Bob, which was a great way to find out. It was welcome news.”
Getting to hear from his players following the announcement was something he enjoyed.
“I’ve heard from some of my kids from this year already and some former players,” Flynn said, “which is always nice.”
Flynn is looking forward to spending the summer getting to see family members he hasn’t been able to see during COVID before he gets back to work with the Frontier cross country team in the fall.