Menicke resigns as harrier coach

After 20 years with the program, Columbia Falls cross-country coach Richard Menicke has resigned. Menicke was an assistant coach under Steve Gasche for 13 years and was the head coach for the past seven years, leading the boys team to a state A championship in 2009.

“It was time,” Menicke said Monday. “It’s been an enjoyable experience.”

Menicke said his oldest son is entering high school this year and he wanted to spend more time with him. He has two boys. Menicke commemorated athletic director Troy Bowman for his help over the years.

“The job Troy has done has been phenomenal,” he said. “He made it enjoyable.”