Los Lunas Tigers’ Larry Padilla named top cross country coach

Los Lunas

Larry Padilla, of Los Lunas, has been named the 2022-2023 New Mexico Girls’ Cross Country High School Coach of the Year by the National Federation of High School Coaches Association.

In a letter from the organization, Padilla was recognized for his coaching performance and “lifetime community involvement, school involvement and coaching philosophy.”

Padilla was nominated by the New Mexico Activities Association.

While appreciating the award, Padilla said, “I believe that it is the kids, parents and the assistant coaches that deserve the honor. They put in the effort and passion for the sport of cross country, bringing pride to our school and community.”

Padilla, a coach at Los Lunas High School for about 35 years, previously won the award in track and field.