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Date: 12/10/2015
SPRINGFIELD – Springfield College head men's track and field coach Ken Klatka has announced that he will retire at the end of the 2015-16 academic year after spending the last 40 years at the helm of the program.
“It has been a true joy to work at Springfield College,” Klatka said. “Now it's time for me to give back to the people who have supported me the most – my wife Susan, my sons Chris, Andy, and Tim, and my four grandchildren. It's time to let someone else have as much fun as I’ve had over the past four decades coaching and teaching here at Springfield College.”
In his 46th overall season as a coach, he ranks among the nation’s most successful coaches, totaling over 450 wins in his career.
In 2011, Klatka was inducted into the Springfield College Athletic Hall of Fame, becoming just the 32nd coach in the history of Springfield College Athletics to receive such an honor.
“I will miss the fraternity of coaching, not only at Springfield College but across the Division III landscape; these coaches are more than colleagues to me, they are my dearest friends. After spending so many weekends away from my family, I'm excited for this new chapter of my life,” he said.
Under his direction, the Springfield College men’s track and field program had six NCAA National Champions and 55 All-Americans, including 33 in outdoor track and field and 22 in indoor track and field.
Springfield College President Mary-Beth Cooper added to the impact that Klatka has made during his career at Springfield College.
“Ken Klatka’s passion for and commitment to Springfield College is inspiring. Last weekend’s celebration of 100 years of track and field at Springfield College was a reminder of how many individuals Ken impacted in his 50 years with the program, as alumni traveled from all over the country to take part in the event. Ken left an indelible mark on so many student-athletes, and we are deeply appreciative of his dedication,” she said.
Director of Athletics Craig Poisson spoke of what Klatka has meant to Springfield College has displayed during his tenure.
“Coach Klatka’s dedication to Springfield College is remarkable. His caring and gentle approach as a teacher coach will leave a lasting legacy at this institution. He truly embodies what the Humanics philosophy represents,” he said.
Klatka, a 1969 Springfield College graduate, was captain of the cross country team, where he set a number of school and course records.
He earned his master's degree from Springfield College in 1970.
After graduation, he coached the college’s men’s cross country team for seven seasons.