Dyersburg State Community College (DSCC) is excited to announce the hiring of Thomas Walters as the inaugural head coach for the men’s and women’s cross-country and half-marathon teams. With an extensive background in competitive running and coaching, Walters is poised to lead DSCC to new heights in its cross-country and half-marathon programs.
Coach Walters began his journey in competitive running in 1981 and transitioned into coaching in 1995. He brings a wealth of experience, having coached at Munford High School since 2008, where he has served as the head cross country and head track coach for both girls and boys. Under his leadership, the team has secured four Sectional Championships and three Regional Runner-up titles, alongside a remarkable State Runner-up performance in Boys Track in 2021.
Thomas Walters attended Arkansas State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in History in 1995. He continued his education at the University of Louisiana-Monroe, where he earned his teacher certification in 2003.
When discussing the hire, Athletic Director Steve Cornelison stated, “We are excited to have Coach Walters leading our cross country and half marathon programs. He brings the experience and success to develop our student-athletes in all areas.”
Walters’ distinguished coaching career also includes tenures at various institutions, including Sylva-Bay Academy in Mississippi, St. Frederick High School in Louisiana, and several other schools where he played pivotal roles in securing district and regional championships. His well-rounded experience coaching boys and girls across multiple disciplines underscores his commitment to developing student-athletes in a nurturing environment.
Coach Walters is excited to face the challenge of coaching at the collegiate level, stating, “I have always wanted to both coach at the collegiate level and start a program from scratch, and DSCC gives me the chance to do both. Of course, there will be a learning curve, but I look forward to bringing in a group of young runners and helping them achieve their goals.”
In addition to his impressive coaching accomplishments, Walters competed in cross country and track at Bartlett High School, where he honed his skills. He later ran at Arkansas State University, continuing his dedication to the sport.
Walters is married to Valeria Walters. They have three children: Erik (24), Wade (20), and Samuel (17). His family is excited to support him in this new chapter at DSCC.
Dyersburg State Community College eagerly welcomes Coach Thomas Walters to the Eagle Family. DSCC is confident that his leadership will inspire student-athletes to reach their fullest potential on and off the track. For more information on Dyersburg State’s new Men’s and Women’s Cross Country and Half Marathon teams, please contact Coach Thomas Walters at tewalters@dscc.edu.