Here’s to the Coach!

Dear editor,

In the fall of 1969, I met Weber State’s new track coach, Charles Hislop. I was in his new office with a couple of other track guys and Coach Hislop asked us to introduce ourselves to each other. We did, and that was the beginning of a 54-year relationship with Chick as well as [his wife] Dianne.

Fall training began soon after and with that was the introduction of purple long underwear. As Chick advised us, they would keep our legs warm during early morning runs. They did, and we were all relieved it was early morning so there would be no gossip about the cross country boys wearing purple tights. As always, Chick was ahead of his time and our outfits would be considered stylish today.

Coach Hislop was very clear and concise regarding his workouts, but he was never overbearing, nor demanding. At the end of the day, what he said made sense and you knew he was right. I was very proud to have earned a letter, but more appreciative of his respect. He was always interested in more than track, wanting to know about your studies, your family and what you wanted to pursue in life.

I returned to Wyoming in 1972 after graduation and we saw each other every year or so. Dianne’s Christmas card list included my wife, Dana, and me, and cards always included a personal note.

Law school took Dana and me to Sacramento, and I sat with Chick at a national college track meet in 1984. We enjoyed the meet and talked like we saw each other every day. He watched every event closely and made observations about individuals that escaped my vision. I know now that sense to observe was a gift that supported his ability to lead many team members to national prominence.

After law school, we returned to Wyoming and I practiced law in Cody. Not long after, I was helping Chick recruit a middle distance runner. He always kept a close eye on Wyoming kids, and I was pleased to still be a part of the program.

In 2006, I was appointed Wyoming State District Court Judge and Chick spoke at the robing ceremony, along with two U.S. senators, Al Simpson and Craig Thomas. During my remarks, I spoke of his admonishment during our practice where I mocked his suggestion of 20 220s all in under 30 seconds. He said, “Young man, you whip a mule and it balks; you whip a thoroughbred, and it responds.” I said, ‘Yes, sir!” and ran the 220s. After the robing ceremony, he said “Did I really say that? That’s really good!”

Later on, I spoke at Chick’s retirement, and he spoke at mine in 2017. I arranged for him to speak at Cody High School, and, as always, he was very engaging, introducing his SPAM formula* to those in attendance.

I loved Chick and Dianne, and I always felt their love in return. And I know I was one of many who experienced the same. He loved commitment and I think he appreciated his continued recognition but was motivated by a much deeper principle — “Do Your Best.” Thanks, Coach.

Sincerely,

Steven R. Cranfill

*Super Positive Attitude Mentally (SPAM), Hislop’s recommended approach to sports and life

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