The Bowling Green R-I School District is immensely proud to announce that Coach Matt Chance has been selected for induction into the Missouri Track & Cross Country Coaches Association (MTCCCA) Hall of Fame — Class of 2026!
This prestigious honor celebrates a career defined by championship leadership, relentless dedication, and an unwavering commitment to our student-athletes. Coach Chance has built far more than a winning program at Bowling Green—he has built a culture of character, discipline, and tradition.
In true Coach Chance fashion, he credits this milestone to our entire Bobcat community. Read his official statement below:
"I am incredibly humbled and honored to be inducted into the Missouri Track and Cross Country Coaches Association Hall of Fame — Class of 2026.
This recognition is something I am truly grateful for, but I know one thing for certain: this is not a 'me' accomplishment — it is a 'WE' accomplishment.
First, I want to thank my assistant coaches. Thank you for the countless hours, the early mornings, the late nights, the practices, the meets, and everything you have poured into our program. Your commitment and dedication have helped make our program what it is today. I could not have done it without you.
To all of the track and cross country athletes who have competed for me throughout the years — thank you. I have the utmost respect and appreciation for the time, effort, sacrifice, and commitment you have given to our programs. Every athlete who has put on a Bowling Green uniform has contributed to our story and our tradition. I am proud of each and every one of you.
I also want to thank my family for their constant love, encouragement, patience, and support. Coaching takes countless hours away from home, and I am extremely grateful for the sacrifices my family has made along the way. This honor belongs to you as much as it does to me.
Most importantly, I want to thank God. I am thankful for the opportunities He has given me, the people He has placed in my life, and the ability to coach, teach, mentor, and make a difference in the lives of young people.
When I look back, I don't think about the wins, championships, or awards first. I think about the people, the relationships, the memories, and the lives we have been fortunate enough to be a part of.
I am truly blessed to have spent so many years doing something I love with people I care deeply about.
Thank you to the Missouri Track and Cross Country Coaches Association for this incredible honor.
It’s not me. It’s WE."
— Coach Matt Chance
CEREMONY INFORMATION
Details regarding the official Hall of Fame ceremony will be released as they are finalized. We look forward to having our Bobcat alumni, assistant coaches, former athletes, and community members join us in honoring Coach Chance's legendary career.