From Classroom to Coaching – A Journey Fueled by Math and Mentorship
With five years in coaching (and 20 years in education), Staci Erickson’s journey started in the classroom as a math teacher, assistant principal, and district math coordinator before she followed her dream to coach.
Now leading Perryton’s cross country and track teams, she’s determined to build a program that lasts.
Her most memorable moment? Coaching a freshman at Regionals, helping him shift from stress to joy, and watching him PR in the 1600m—a powerful reminder to enjoy the process, not just chase the outcome.
Shoes, Superstitions, and Small Victories
Coach Erickson’s “superstition” is all about the shoes: if a runner PRs in a certain pair, don’t mess with success!
She cringes when athletes switch shoes mid-season. She’s a master multitasker, able to lock into multiple conversations at once—much to her athletes’ surprise.
Her favorite pre-meet meal is simple: chicken, veggies, bread, fruit, and a sweet treat. If she weren’t coaching, she’d still be in education, using her math expertise to help students succeed.
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Intense, Passionate, and Detailed
Described by her team as intense, passionate, and detailed, Coach Erickson brings focus and energy to every practice. Her favorite sports movie is McFarland, and TikTok is her go-to social platform.
Her advice for new coaches? Be patient—building a program takes two to three years, especially when taking over a team in transition.
Already, her leadership is paying off: Perryton athletes are advancing to regionals and national competitions, and the goal is to reach state in the next three years.
Coaching Philosophy: Push Through the Hard Things
Coach Erickson believes that pushing through the hard things is where the magic happens.
Her motto:
“Celebrate every victory.”
She emphasizes recognizing progress, no matter how small, so her athletes stay motivated and see how each step moves them closer to their goals.
The fierce competition and sportsmanship in the Texas Panhandle inspire her—she admires how runners respect each other’s hard work and achievements.
400 Repeats, Supportive Community, and Big Goals
Her favorite drill? 400 repeats (even if her athletes don’t love them as much!).
Coffee fuels her day, and she values field practice to keep her athletes sharp.
The best part of coaching in Perryton is the community’s support—when she took over, parents and supporters rallied to provide for the team, making sure no runner went without.
This season, Coach Erickson’s goals are to get more runners out of district, advance teams to regionals and state, and continue growing the program.
With intentional training, a focus on the details, and a community behind her, she’s confident Perryton’s best is yet to come.