The National High School Athletic Coaches Association convention that has been two years in the making was held last week in Lincoln, Nebraska and one area track coach was recognized for his longtime efforts.

Washington’s Steve Roth was named a finalist for the Boys Track and Field National Coach of the Year in early 2020 and the event was finally held on Thursday to decide the winner. While Roth came up short from receiving the coach of the year distinction, he was still awarded a plaque for being one of eight finalists nationwide and the only one from Iowa. Scott Smith of Powell High School in Wyoming received the top honor after winning seven state titles throughout his career. The convention in Nebraska was a four day event that included various clinics all leading up to the banquet. 

Roth has been the head man for the Demons for the past 46 years and he tells KCII Sports this was a huge honor. “I am very humbled. To represent Washington, the school that I love, is very humbling. It was a neat venue and all eight coaches that qualified had great resumes. I met some really interesting coaches from around the country and picked up a few things along the way.”

Coaches were nominated for the award on a selection process that includes longevity, service to high school athletics, honors, championship years, and winning percentage.