Chugiak High School distance runner Liam Baez-Terry had his college signing day April 26th where he signed his letter of intent to run for the Montana State University-Northern men’s cross country team next fall.  

Joined by his parents Laura and Michael, coaches and teammates honored Baez-Terry for his four years of consistent hard work and dedication on the Mustang cross country and track teams.  Located in Havre, Montana, the MSU-Northern Cross Country team competes in the NAIA Frontier Conference with member schools from Montana, Idaho and Oregon.

Chugiak head coach Melissa Hall commended Baez-Terry for his consistent progress, building  year after year and being a solid example for teammates on his path to racing at the college level.

“Every year he has gotten faster and faster. Coaches reached out to me and asked if he would be interested in running and Liam to his credit reached out to coaches also. When you stick to the path and stay focused, you end up having success,” Hall said.

“We are super proud of him. His persistent quiet strength has always been there. You always put forward your best effort,” Hall said.  “And he has a kick at the end that has always been there.”

MTSU-Northern Coach Chad Spangler said Baez-Terry’s positive attitude and work ethic are reasons why he recruited him to run for the Northern Lights next season.

“Getting to know Liam, most recently I decided to offer him a scholarship to run cross country at our college. It was an incredibly easy decision for three reasons. One, Liam wants to run, I’m not begging him, he took the initiative,” Spangler said.

“He has all the right stuff outside of this sport, he is respectful, conscientious and a good student and he was a hit with our guys right away.”

“Liam’s times show he has the capacity to compete at the NAIA level and I’m very excited Liam has chosen Northern.”

“I’m confident that he will be a successful student and athlete. While I want to congratulate Liam on this special day, I hope the community also recognizes that successful young people like Liam are usually reflections of remarkable parents, friends, teachers and coaches. Great job Chugiak High,” Spangler said.

Baez-Terry is interested in studying criminal-justice and is also looking forward to learn fly fishing with his new teammates down in the Big Sky country.

Nephi Tyler enjoys writing, fly fishing, classic movies, aviation history and all things outdoors. To reach Nephi, email: nephi@echoak.com