Rogers School District Renames Cross Country Course
The local cross country course is now named after legendary coaches Carlton and Becky Efurd.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Running
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The Rogers school district recently honored long-time coaches Carlton and Becky Efurd by renaming its cross country course. The facility is now officially known as the Carlton and Becky Efurd Park.
Why it matters
The district dedicated the course to celebrate the coaches' decades of leadership and their significant impact on local student-athletes. The renaming recognizes their historic role in building the program into a state powerhouse.
The coaching duo led Rogers High School teams to 25 combined state championships over their multi-decade tenure. This total includes 19 titles for the boys' team and 6 for the girls' team.
The players
Carlton Efurd
He is a long-time coach who led the Rogers High School cross country program for several decades.
Becky Efurd
She is a long-time coach who served alongside Carlton Efurd to lead the Rogers High School teams to numerous state titles.
The details
A monument was unveiled during a dedication ceremony to mark the official renaming of the course. The park honors the legacy of Carlton and Becky Efurd who guided generations of students to success on the track.
Timeline
October 27, 2026: Dedication ceremony held for the cross country course.
1988-2016: Years during which the boys' team secured state championships.
2003-2023: Years during which the girls' team secured state championships.
Season Trajectory
This dedication follows a common pattern of school districts honoring long-tenured coaches by naming facilities after them. It cements the legacy of the Efurds as figures who elevated the competitive status of the Rogers cross country program for decades.
The renaming of the facility does not change the physical layout or official competition standards of the course. Residents and athletes should note that all scheduled events will now take place at the newly branded Carlton and Becky Efurd Park.
The takeaway
Recognizing educators through facility naming provides a lasting tribute to their contributions to the community. Such gestures serve as a permanent reminder of the standard of excellence established by long-term coaching leaders.
Further reading
For more news from the track, visit the Running section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette.
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