50-for-50: Dave Bakley, X-Country, Track & Field Coach, Athletic Director 1972-94
In 2021 LB celebrates the 50-year anniversary of its athletics program. Beginning in January, we will highlight people, teams and moments from the past five decades of Roadrunner Athletics. You can nominate a former athlete, coach, team, suppter or memorable moment from LB Athletics using this form.
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The Early Years: 1969-1979
Dave Bakley- Cross Country, Track & Field, Athletic Director 1972-94
Bakley started the track & field program at LBCC as its first head coach in 1972 and later served as athletic director from1992-94. He taught physical education at LB and was instrumental in launching and maintaining the College's Wellness Program.
Bakley was named OCCAA Coach of the Year six times, coached 25 NJCAA all-Americans and six individual national champions. Bakley also coached three future Olympians: Dave Johnson, Tim Bright and Kory Tarpenning.
Bakley started his teaching career at Henley High in Klamath Falls and then Jackson High in Portland before coming to LB in 1972.
He was inducted into the NWAC Hall of Fame in 1992 and spent his years after LB staying active in various health, wellness and coaching capacities before he passed away in 2017.
