David Cain
Class of 2023
David Cain’s connection to running began long before his coaching career at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). As a young first-grader at Mountain Gap Elementary, Cain participated in the inaugural Autumn Chase, a fun run hosted by the Huntsville Track Club. His participation, and the ribbon he earned, sparked a love for running that would shape his career. Today, Cain is known as one of the most accomplished track and cross-country coaches in the region, guiding UAH to significant success.
Cain, 48, has served as UAH’s head track and field coach and head cross-country coach for over two decades. Throughout his tenure, he has received eight Gulf South Conference Coach of the Year awards and led UAH’s teams to 13 NCAA Division II Cross-Country Championship appearances. His women’s cross-country teams have won five conference titles, and the men’s teams have claimed seven, contributing to a total of 107 first-team All-Gulf South Conference honorees. On the track, Cain has helped UAH secure back-to-back Peach Belt Conference championships in 2013 and 2014 and four Gulf South Conference titles since 2017. Under his leadership, the Chargers have produced five track and field All-Americans over the past five seasons.
Cain’s journey into coaching was not immediately planned. After an accomplished high school and college running career, where he specialized in steeplechase at Mississippi State, Cain found his way to coaching after a fateful encounter at a local 10K race in Huntsville. After a conversation with Michael Scarano, then UAH’s cross-country coach, Cain was invited to join UAH’s practice sessions, which eventually led to a coaching opportunity. In 1997, after the sudden departure of UAH’s cross-country coach, Cain was offered the position, “It was like literally a gift from God,” Cain reflects.
From those early years, where he was often faster than his own runners, Cain quickly established himself as a respected coach. He worked closely with his athletes, pushing them to reach their full potential, and his teams began to excel. Today, Cain is not just known for his coaching success, but also for his approachability and dedication to developing athletes both on and off the track.
Cain’s family plays an integral role in his life. He and his wife, Ashley, met as teammates at Mississippi State and have been together for over 20 years. Their children, including Elizabeth, a new recruit for UAH, continue the family’s involvement in sports. Cain’s personal commitment to his athletes and his family has defined his career, making him a pillar in the Huntsville athletic community.
David Cain’s remarkable career at UAH has not only produced championships and accolades, but also fostered a culture of hard work and sportsmanship. His story is one of dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to his athletes and the sport he loves.
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