Head Coach: Matt Norton

Coach Norton brings over two decades of coaching experience to The Classical Academy, where he currently serves as the Head Coach for Cross Country. Coach Norton took over the reigns as head coach in the fall of 2022 after a few years as an assistant. 

Throughout his 24 year coaching career across three schools, Coach Norton has led 11 state championship teams and nine state runner-up teams, along with mentoring numerous state champions and all-state athletes in both cross country and track & field.

A former collegiate athlete at the University of Kansas, his running career was highlighted by a runner-up finish in the 800-meter run at the 1996 Big 8 Championships, and he was honored to serve as co-captain of the 1996–1997 track team.

Beyond the accolades, Coach Norton is passionate about passing on the love of athletics and competition that was instilled in him by his own mentors. He values the relationships built through coaching and is deeply grateful for the support of the TCA community.

In addition to coaching, he teaches 9th grade English at TCA. He and his wife Rebecca have been married for 20+ years and are proud parents to Gwendolyn, a 11th grader at TCA, and Walter, a 9th grader at the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind.

Contact: mnorton@tcatitans.org

Assistant Coach: Emily Hanenburg

Coach Hanenburg is a foundational figure in TCA’s cross country program, both as a former athlete and as a longtime coach.

She competed for TCA from 2002–2006, during the program’s early years, helping establish the culture of excellence, commitment, and values that continue to define TCA cross country today. Following her high school career, she went on to run for the University of Colorado. At CU, Coach Hanenburg distinguished herself not only as a talented distance runner, but also as a leader and an exceptional student, earning multiple Academic All–Big 12 honors during her collegiate career.

In the fall of 2011, Emily returned home to TCA as an assistant coach. She coaches both cross country and track while also teaching at the high school.

Affectionately known as “Coach E,” her impact reaches far beyond workouts and race strategy. She is deeply known for her genuine care for athletes; encouraging them, supporting them, and consistently showing up for them in ways that extend well beyond coaching responsibilities. Her willingness to invest countless hours, to listen, and to walk alongside runners through both triumphs and challenges has made her an invaluable presence in the program.

Contact: ehanenburg@tcatitans.org 

Assistant Coach: Abe Means

Coach Means joined TCA's coaching staff in the fall of 2022 and has been an integral part of the Titans program ever since. A standout high school runner at nearby Palmer Ridge, he continued his athletic career competing in cross country and track at Division II Colorado Christian University in Lakewood, Colorado.

Coach Means’ passion for running is unmistakable and contagious. That enthusiasm has carried over to the Titans, where he has made a lasting impact, including leading the TCA Junior High Track program from 2022 to 2024. He brings a wealth of experience to the team and is also an accomplished marathon runner, having competed in races across the country, including the prestigious Boston Marathon.

In addition to coaching, Coach Means teaches 6th grade at TCA East, where his energy and positivity are felt daily. His commitment, enthusiasm, and love for the sport continue to be a huge key to the success of the Titans. 

Contact: ameans@tcatitans.org