Montgomery, Ala.- Blue Mountain Christian University Head Cross Country and Track & Field Coach Phillip Laney was honored Monday evening as the recipient of the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) Coach of Character Award during the conference's annual awards banquet.
The award recognizes coaches who exemplify the SSAC's core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership while making a lasting impact on the lives of their student-athletes.
Laney has served as the head coach of the Topper Cross Country program for the past 14 years and has been instrumental in the growth of Blue Mountain athletics. 
In 2022, he founded the university's Track & Field program, expanding opportunities for student-athletes and helping establish a culture centered on excellence and character.
Throughout his tenure at BMCU, Laney has impacted countless student-athletes both athletically and personally. 
His commitment to developing the whole person has helped shape generations of Toppers while fostering an environment that reflects the mission and values of Blue Mountain Christian University.
The SSAC prides itself on the values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. 
Throughout his years at Blue Mountain Christian University, Laney has consistently demonstrated each of those qualities. 
As the leader of the Topper Cross Country and Track & Field programs, he has built a culture rooted in accountability, humility, and service while helping student-athletes grow both on and off the course and track.
"I am incredibly honored and humbled to receive this award. The truth is that coaching has never been about recognition for me; it's always been about investing in the lives of young people and helping them discover the gifts and purpose God has given them. I have been blessed to coach so many outstanding student-athletes over the years, and this award is really a reflection of the people I've had the privilege to work alongside. Blue Mountain has been a special place for my family and me, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue serving our students every day," said Laney.
Blue Mountain Christian University Director of Athletics Curt Fowler praised Laney's influence on the department and the student-athletes he serves.
"Phillip Laney is one of the finest Christian coaches I have ever been around. For fourteen years, he has faithfully served Blue Mountain Christian University with a heart for people and a commitment to excellence. He cares deeply about his student-athletes and consistently points them toward growth as competitors, students, and followers of Christ. This award is a reflection of the character he displays every day, and we are blessed to have him as part of the Blue Mountain family," said Fowler.
Under Laney's leadership, the Topper Cross Country and Track & Field programs have continued to reach new heights competitively while maintaining a strong commitment to academic success and Christian character. 
His dedication to serving others and investing in the lives of young men and women has made a lasting impact throughout the Blue Mountain community.
The Coach of Character Award serves as a fitting recognition of Laney's faithful leadership and the legacy he continues to build at Blue Mountain Christian University.
 
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