May 29 a 'beautiful day' for inaugural charity 5K honoring late Greensburg Salem coach

Longtime Greensburg Salem track and cross country coach Steve Snider was known for his inspirational approach and positive outlook, viewing, in his own words, every day as “a beautiful day.”

The beloved coach, who also taught physical education and health in the district for 36 years, will be remembered on Memorial Day, May 29, with the inaugural Steve Snider “It’s a Beautiful Day” 5K race.

Organized by the Greensburg YMCA and Snider’s family and friends, the event will raise money for a scholarship established in Snider’s name for Greensburg Salem students. Proceeds also will benefit youth activities at the YMCA and revitalization of Greensburg’s city playgrounds, according to race planners.

“Coach Snider lived every day to the fullest and encouraged his children, grandchildren, students and athletes to do the same,” said Amy DeMatt, chairperson of the race committee and one of Snider’s former student-athletes. She said the race is meant “to honor him and his zest for life, for running.”

Snider died on Feb. 28, 2022, at 72, after a long battle with heart complications. His coaching record at Greensburg Salem included 548 wins and two WPIAL titles in the cross country program. His track teams achieved 248 wins and four county championships.

Snider’s sons, Matthew and Nathan, followed him into coaching.

Nathan Snider, who teaches health and physical education at Greensburg Salem High School, said criteria for scholarship recipients has yet to be finalized. He said scholarships likely would be awarded to a student who is planning post-secondary studies in fields such as education, health, fitness, wellness or recreation.

He said the recipient should demonstrate “qualities my father showed, such as leadership, commitment and caring about others, while also experiencing their best effort.”