Airey Bros Radio Episode 443 features Matt Roe, Head Coach of Butler University Track &amp; Field and Cross Country, for a deep dive into one of the most respected NCAA Division I distance running programs in the country.<br /><br />Originally streamed live on March 5, 2026, this episode explores how Coach Roe has built Butler into a consistent force in Big East cross country and track &amp; field, developing athletes into conference champions, NCAA finalists, All-Americans, and national-caliber competitors.<br /><br />Since taking over the program in 2007, Roe has helped shape Butler into a premier destination for serious student-athletes looking for the right balance of elite academics, team culture, long-term development, and championship-level performance.<br /><br />In this conversation, we cover:<ul><li>Coach Matt Roe’s path from standout runner at the University of Portland to NCAA Division I head coach<br /><br /></li><li>How Butler has won 4 of the last 6 Big East Men’s Cross Country titles<br /><br /></li><li>What Roe looks for in recruits, including multi-sport athletes, untapped potential, and “diamonds in the rough”<br /><br /></li><li>Why development, biomechanics, toughness, and culture matter more than flashy PRs<br /><br /></li><li>How Butler balances high academic standards with elite athletic success<br /><br /></li><li>Jesse Hamlin’s rise and Butler’s current momentum in indoor track and outdoor track<br /><br /></li><li>The long-game philosophy behind building nationally competitive men’s and women’s distance programs<br /><br /></li><li>Systems over motivation, coaching psychology, and preparing athletes to “go break things” on race day</li></ul>This is a must-listen episode for distance runners, cross country athletes, track &amp; field coaches, recruits, parents, and fans of NCAA running who want an inside look at what it takes to build a winning program at the Division I level.<br /><br />🎧 Now streaming on all podcast platforms:<br />Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and more<br /><a href="https://buymeacoffee.com/aireybros" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">☕ Support Airey Bros Radio</a>