ALL-AMERICAN MAN

All

Man

A look into a life and career that is being 'run' well.

Ashlyn Neufeld | Reporter & Designer

Robert Spies, the All-American and world-ranked sprinter is flying through his fourth year as head coach of the Hutchinson Community College track and field team.

Spies first came to HutchCC in 2019 after Coach Pat Becher retired. He came from a previous position, coaching at McPherson College since 2013. With over fifteen years of coaching experience under his belt, it's safe to say that the Blue Dragons will continue to improve under his wing.

Spies first got started with track in grade school where he would attend all-school meets once a year.

“I would say my mom was the first real push for track and field way back then. She would have me training for this once-a-year meet a month in advance, which at the time I didn't like, however, the end results of that work would always pay off,” said Spies.

Spies got inspiration from many people including his middle and high school coaches.

“Dave Schneider and Jeff Fuss were great influences in my life,” Spies said. “I truly appreciate them to this very day for their guidance in the sport.”

Though he had many accomplishments through his time as a student athlete, Spies had a couple that stuck out the most.

Spies said, “Being world ranked in the 60m sprint is up at the top, however, also being an All-American in the individual sprints as well as on a few different relays is up towards the top.”

Sprints, though, weren’t his only event as a young athlete, he also worked very hard as a long jumper. He now coaches all events from jumps to runs to throws with the help of a few great assistant coaches, one of which being his wife, who coaches jumping events.

Head Coach Robert Spies helps Christopher Brown, Westmoreland, Jamaica, with an attempt in the weight throw. The athletes prepared for indoor season to start.

Ashlyn Neufeld | Photo

Spies helps Kaylee James, Jetmore, on hurdles at practice. Indoor season begins on Jan. 21 at Washburn University. Ashlyn Neufeld | Photo

Spies watches the throwing form while his athletes practice. Spies puts in seven hours, give or take, with the throwing group each week.

The excitement builds as the season quickly approaches. "I'm probably just the most excited about getting ready for competitions and having the ability to compete because fall always seems to take so long to get through," said Spies. "I'm just ready for everyone to get out there."

Where he's CoaChed

Ashlyn Neufeld | Photo

During a cold November practice, Spies leads and encourages his runners.