Coach Bob Stark ’64 Retires After 56 Years
Bob Stark ‘64 retired at the end of the 2023-24 school year, bringing to a close an extraordinary career as Coach of Warrior Cross Country. His tenure, the second-longest in Catholic League history, has left an indelible mark on the program and the countless student-athletes he mentored across generations. Stark also led the track team for over four decades before focusing exclusively on cross country in 2016.
Stark’s connection to Brother Rice spans over sixty years, starting when he first entered the school as a student in 1960. After graduating from Notre Dame, he returned in 1968 as a teacher and coach. Throughout the years, he has worn many hats—teacher, vice principal, assistant athletic director, and business manager.
He forged lasting relationships with countless alumni, many of whom hold him in the highest regard to this day. His exemplary contributions have earned him membership in the Brother Rice Athletic Hall of Fame, the Catholic League Hall of Fame, and the Coaches Association Hall of Fame. His dedication, loyalty, and deep love for Brother Rice were further recognized when he was inducted into the Spirit of Blessed Edmund Society—the school’s highest honor.
Bob Stark has been a true blessing to our school and mission. His presence on campus remains cherished as he continues to make frequent visits to campus, where he is always greeted with warmth and admiration. His legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of Warrior history and tradition, and his impact will be felt by generations to come.
Coach Scott Collins Carries the XC Torch Forward
With the retirement of Coach Stark, Scott Collins was appointed the new head coach of the Warrior Cross Country program. Coach Collins, who has been an assistant coach since 2021, brings with him over two decades of coaching experience and a deep commitment to the sport. He was a distinguished cross country athlete at Oakland University, and achieved remarkable success in his career, competing in two U.S. National Cross-Country Championships. We are excited to see Coach Collins build on the legacy of excellence within the Warrior Cross Country programs.