For the past three years, Coach Kris Wilde has led the Cross Country and Track and Field programs at Penn State Schuylkill with passion, purpose, and a whole lot of heart. With over a decade of coaching experience, Wilde has been instrumental in building the programs from the ground up. When she first stepped into the role, she inherited a men's team with just two athletes and no athletes on the women's side. Fast forward to today, both teams are not only thriving in numbers but also dominating in competition. Under Wilde's leadership, the women's team claimed PSUAC Cross Country Championship Invite titles in 2022 and 2024, while the men's team secured championships in 2023 and 2024.
Her journey into coaching was sparked by her deep-rooted love for the sport and a little nudge from a colleague. "My love for the sport and wanting to share that passion with others got me started," Wilde said. "Also, it didn't hurt when Brian Valentine asked me to coach!!" That mix of personal passion and encouragement set the stage for a coaching career that continues to flourish.
In addition to her coaching role, Wilde serves as the Administrative Support for the Nursing and Radiological Sciences programs at the campus. Her dual involvement reflects her deep commitment to the Penn State Schuylkill community, both on and off the course.
What keeps Wilde going is the opportunity to make a lasting impact on student-athletes. "I hope that my impact is so far reaching that it ignites a spark for them to want to pursue coaching in their future," she said. That mindset is evident in her coaching philosophy, which prioritizes growth, discipline, and personal development. She sees strong academic standing as a clear indicator of a successful athlete. "When a student-athlete displays successes in the classroom, that translates not only to intellectual aptitude, but also to mental toughness, dedication, hard work, time management, discipline, perseverance, and focus."
Her goals for the upcoming season are ambitious but well within reach. She's aiming for a repeat win for the women's cross country team and a three-peat for the men. For track and field, Wilde hopes to see even more success across all events, with both individual and team achievements.
Reflecting on her time with the teams, Wilde has countless favorite memories. From setting personal records as an athlete to watching her student-athletes reach their goals and fall in love with the sport, she cherishes every moment. "We've had fun team outings and dinners, recreational play participating in flag football, volleyball, kickball, ultimate frisbee, and capture the flag. Uhh, laser tag, anyone?" she added with a laugh. But above all, what she values most is the bond they've built. "The longevity of the kinship, brotherhood, and sisterhood...the family, really, that we have formed. We are able to keep making more favorite memories because of the lasting bonds that have been formed."
A fun fact that might surprise her athletes? "I love the messages they leave on my desk when I'm out of the office...even if it's while I'm just filling my water bottle," Wilde shared. "All notes find a home on my filing cabinet, bulletin board, or calendar."
As for advice, Wilde keeps it honest and motivational. "You get what you give. If you are willing to give of yourself to your team, your coach, and your workout regime, you will get the reward in your results. On the flipside, if you are not willing to give of yourself...you can't expect to have the reward as a result." She also reminds student-athletes to take care of their "5 Key Needs" for success: nutrition, sleep and recovery, hydration, training, and mental health. And of course, "STRETCH!!!!"
To her Schuylkill family, Wilde offers heartfelt gratitude. "Since day one, I have been blessed to be at the helm of these amazing, diverse, and highly entertaining XC and T&F teams. I am also grateful to have created lifelong relationships and friendships with so many other coaches, staff, and student-athletes here at Penn State Schuylkill."
Coach Kris Wilde's impact goes beyond wins; she's shaping a strong and lasting community.
