News Summary

The St. Louis track and field community is mourning the loss of two of its legends, Rick Stovall and Vince Bingham. Both significantly impacted the sport through their accomplishments as an athlete and coach, touching the lives of many in the region. Their memorial services reflect their profound influence, as their legacies inspire future generations of athletes. Stovall, renowned for his sprinting success, and Bingham, celebrated for his exceptional coaching, will be remembered as pillars of the sport.

St. Louis Track and Field Community Mourns the Loss of Legends Rick Stovall and Vince Bingham

The close-knit community of St. Louis is coming to grips with the loss of two athletic titans—Rick Stovall and Vince Bingham—who left a significant mark on the world of track and field. Both passed away just days apart, leaving a void in the hearts of athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts across the region.

Rick Stovall: A Sprinted Legacy

Rick Stovall wasn’t just any runner; he was a phenomenon on the track at Berkeley High School during the mid-1980s. Under the guidance of renowned coach Rod Staggs, Stovall helped transform Berkeley’s track program into a powerhouse between 1984 and 1987. His astonishing record includes being the most decorated athlete in the school’s history, with an incredible 12 state championships to his name!

Stovall became a household name among Berkeley Bulldogs fans. Imagine dominating the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes—he snagged four individual state titles in those events! But that’s just scratching the surface. He was instrumental in eight state championship relay teams and triumphed at the 1987 Class 3 state meet, clinching not only the individual championships but also anchoring his teams to victory in the prestigious 4×100 and 4×200 meter relays that year.

His relentless speed and fierce dedication made him a standout competitor. Coach Staggs often spoke about Stovall’s tenacity, which played a crucial role in helping the Bulldogs secure four consecutive state championships. Under his leadership, the team won the overall state title, even outpacing strong rivals from New Madrid County Central. Stovall’s legacy was so influential that he was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2019 as part of the Berkeley High Track Program.

Vince Bingham: A Mentor for Generations

While Stovall dazzled on the track, Vince Bingham’s brilliance shone brightly in coaching. Widely regarded as a revered coach, Bingham had an indelible impact at the local, regional, and even national levels. As a member of the Missouri High School Cross Country/Track Coaches Hall of Fame, his storied career spanned various institutions, including a successful tenure as a head coach at Missouri Baptist University. There, he guided the track program to two NAIA outdoor national championships and one indoor national championship.

But Bingham’s influence wasn’t confined to the college ranks. He had coaching stints at several universities, including Lindenwood University and the University of Missouri. His role as a mentor for countless high school teams in the St. Louis area helped shape future national champions. Those who knew him often praised his ability to connect with young athletes, instilling both confidence and a love for the sport.

Originally hailing from Crystal City, Bingham dedicated his summers to coaching with the Jefferson County Jets Track Club, building relationships that extended into a tight-knit community. More than just a Hall of Fame coach, he was known as a Hall of Fame person, beloved by many for his warmth and approachability.

A Community in Mourning

The loss of Rick Stovall and Vince Bingham has been particularly hard on the St. Louis track and field community. Both men were not only elite athletes and coaches but also pillars of inspiration for many aspiring sprinters and runners. Their services, which are set to take place on successive days, reflect the profound respect and admiration that their communities held for them. Rick Stovall’s services are scheduled for September 26 at Shalom Church in Berkeley, while Vince Bingham’s visitation will occur on September 27 at Grace Life Chapel in Pevely.

A special celebration of life for Bingham will occur during halftime of Crystal City’s home football game against Gateway STEM on Friday night, further honoring his memory as a treasured mentor and friend.

In the wake of this loss, the St. Louis track and field community stands united, celebrating the remarkable lives and legacies that Rick Stovall and Vince Bingham have left behind. They may be gone, but their spirits will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come.

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