Canaan Stough has earned some outstanding accomplishments as cross–county runner for the Belgreen Bulldogs. All of that hard work paid off with Stough earning a scholarship to Calhoun Community College in Decatur.

Stough has been ranked the top senior cross–country runner in the state in Class 1A/2A, and he is 16th overall.  He has four top 10 finishes this season and placed fifth place in the Class 1A/2A sectionals this Oct. 28.

“I am so excited to be signing with Calhoun. From the second I stepped on campus I felt at home. I am looking forward to running for Coach Bain and her team, especially rejoining one of my former Belgreen teammates, Kimberly Luna,” said Stough. “I am so thankful for my first coach, Chuck Simmons, and my current coach, Colby Cox, for how hard they have pushed me throughout the years and how much they want each one of their athletes to succeed. They each have played a huge role in my decision to become a teacher and hopefully follow in their footsteps as a coach.

“I am excited for the upcoming year and becoming a Warhawk.”

Cox touted Stough’s work ethic, determination and desire as keys to his success.

“Canaan and I have worked together since little league baseball,” said Cox. “He has a unique love for running.  As talented as he is at cross country, the way he works makes him excel in every sport he plays.

“Canaan has a desire to be the best at whatever he does. This desire has helped him to overcome several obstacles, including two surgeries on his knees,” Cox added. “His teammates feed off of his love for cross country, and he is going to be truly missed after this year.

“As much as our program will miss him, I look forward to seeing him continue his cross–country love at Calhoun.”