Bob Heller (2003) - Hall of Fame - Kutztown University Athletics

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Bob Heller

Class

1981
Induction

2003
Sport(s)

Men's Track & Field, Coaches, Men's Cross Country

Bob Heller (’81) was a standout cross country and track & field runner who has gone on to become an accomplished coach and athletics administrator. Heller competed at Kutztown from 1976-1981. He was the first Golden Bear runner to qualify for the NCAA Cross Country Championships, competing at the 1979 Division III Championships. He also served as team captain for cross country in 1980. On the track, Heller set school records in the 5000-meter run (15:06) and the 3000 meter steeplechase (9:54), also serving as captain in 1980-81. Heller left the field as a competitor in 1981, only to return as the coach of the Kutztown men’s cross country team from 1984-1990. His team steadily improved under his guidance. In 1988, his team peaked when it qualified for its first-ever trip to the NCAA Division II Championships, placing 11th. Heller was named East Region Coach of the Year for his team’s performance. Heller has gone on to a distinguished career in athletics administration, serving as assistant athletics director at Lenoir-Rhyne, Slippery Rock and Kent State. In 2000, he was promoted to his current position, associate athletics director at Kent State. A native of Oradell, NJ, he is a graduate of River Dell Regional High School. He graduated from KU in 1981 with a degree in special education.

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