Alex Woodley, 71; Philadelphia Track Group’s Coach

Alex Woodley, 71, the longtime coach of the Philadelphia Pioneers track club who trained world and Olympic champions, died of a heart attack Saturday ) at his home in that city.

Woodley began coaching the club in the early 1960s. From 1977 to 1981, the Pioneers were the dominant track club in the nation, winning consecutive USA Track & Field indoor and outdoor team championships. During that period, athletes in his club set at least 10 National Collegiate Athletic Assn., world and Olympic records.

Steve Riddick, a leading sprinter in the late 1970s and an Olympic gold medalist in the 400-meter relay in 1976, told the Philadelphia Inquirer that he joined the Pioneers because of Woodley.

“He was the best coach for sprinters in the nation,” Riddick said.

A native of Philadelphia, Woodley graduated from La Salle University there with a degree in biology. He competed as a high jumper but without much distinction. After graduating, he taught high school English and African American studies from 1963 to 1996.

Woodley was also known for his work with at-risk children in Philadelphia.