Coaching Management VOL. XVII NO. 8
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TRACK & FIELD POSTSEASON EDITION 2009 ■
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Strength Through Sleep Coaching Your Kid
MORE FOR LESS Utilizing volunteer coaches
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CONTENTS
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Coaching Management Track & Field Edition Postseason 2009 Vol. XVII, No. 8
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LOCKER ROOM
COVER STORY
Bulletin Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Track teams nationwide brace for more budget cuts … Summitt (Ore.) High School breaks records on its new track ... How to host a sports medicine clinic ... NCAA Division I coaches form a strategic planning committee … Kentucky coach uses Twitter.
Q&A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Michael Friess, Head Men’s and Women’s Coach at the University of Alaska-Anchorage, talks about his good-news, bad-news season, which culminated in a 14th place finish for his men’s squad at the NCAA Division II outdoor nationals. On the cover: Tennessee’s Celriece Law competes in the 100-meter hurdles. In our cover story, Tennessee Head Women’s Coach J.J. Clark discusses his use of volunteer coaches. Article begins on page 16. Cover photo by Robert Black.
More For Less
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How do you stretch a small coaching staff into a large one in these times of tight budgets? By welcoming volunteer assistants onto your team. In this article, top coaches give advice on making the idea work.
COACHING LIFE
All In The Family
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Before you decide to coach your son or daughter, it is helpful to know the ups and downs of the experience—and to talk through the unique challenges your relationship may face.
OPTIMUM PERFORMANCE
Strength Through Sleep
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Recent research shows that there is one very easy way for athletes to enhance their workouts and performance: by getting a full night of uninterrupted sleep.
TRACK FacilitIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Team Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 CONDITIONING PRODUCTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
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LOCKER ROOM BULLETIN BOARD Bracing for the Budget Crunch
Asher has also worked to be proactive on the national level. Along with other coaches, he helped develop a memo that was sent to the NCAA Division II Presidents Council and Management Council, outlining a plan for division-wide cut backs, if necessary.
The current economic downturn is affecting millions of people across the country in all walks of life, and the high school and college track and field scene is no exception. While some teams have been hit worse than others, virtually all programs are feeling the crunch in one way or another, whether it’s reduced travel, schedule cuts, or even an entire program falling by the wayside.
“Division II has looked at eliminating part of the season in every sport,” Asher says. “We wanted to come up with a plan that described what we could see being cut, rather than having others decide for us. We discussed starting our fall season a little later and having some mandatory days off over the winter holiday break when the school wouldn’t be responsible for paying for the student-athletes to be on campus.”
That was nearly the case at Pepperdine University, where the men’s track and field team was originally eliminated as part of a university-wide effort to reduce expenses. But now, Head Coach Robert Radnoti, who also leads the women’s squad, is working with administrators to find a way to support a downsized version of the men’s team, which would allow some of its top distance runners to continue competing. Other men’s teams on the chopping block include those at Quinnipiac University and James Madison University. At this point, no women’s teams have been disbanded. “A lot of teams are fighting for survival right now,” says Chris Asher, Head Men’s and Women’s Coach at California State University-Los Angeles and President of the NCAA Division II group of the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association. “If you’re a women’s program, you’re safer. People are fearing for the men’s programs, especially in mid-major conferences.
For teams in a budget crunch, living in fear of being cut, or
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about to lose scholarship funding, like the men’s team at the University of Cincinnati, Asher says coaches need to be proactive. “Don’t wait to get cut,” he says. “Do things that show your administrators you’re trying to make a difference. “For example, to save money, schedule more one-day local meets where you can travel in a van or bus,” continues Asher. “Coaches can also do more fundraising—the key there is to reach out to alumni. And communicate everything you’re doing to your administrators.”
Cal State-Los Angeles is also being careful about the type of athletes it is spending scholarship dollars on. Asher is recruiting more multi-event athletes, rather than those who specialize in one discipline. “Right now, I might be less apt to recruit someone who’s just a pole vaulter and is going to cost me $500 per pole in equipment money,” he says. “Our priority is a sprinter who does four events, a distance runner who does three events, a decathlete, or someone else like that.”
Another part of the proposed rules changes would introduce a seven-day “dead period” from Dec. 20-26 when no practices or meets can take place. The rule would also apply to other sports in Division II. At the Division I level, regional championship meets have come under fire as the Pac-10 and Big 12 Conferences proposed the elimination of the competitions. Administrators in the Big 12 argued that the event is unnecessary as a qualifier for the NCAA championships because athletes have already proven themselves during the regular season and conference meets. The cost of the extra week of competition
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“When the going gets tough, the first thing administrators do is see what they can eliminate,” continues Asher. “Sports like wrestling, swimming and diving, and track and field are usually the first to go.”
One of the ways California State University-Los Angeles is hoping to make its budget go further is by recruiting more multi-event athletes. C.J. Brewer, above, recorded the team’s best time in the 1500 meters last season and also competes in the 800, 3000, and 5000.
In response, the current legislation to be voted on at the NCAA Convention in January would require Division II schools to begin their cross country seasons a week later than they currently do. Student-athletes would be allowed to report 17 days before the first permissible contest (which cannot be before the Thursday preceding September 6) or five days before the start of classes, whichever is earlier.
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LOCKER ROOM BULLETIN BOARD can be as much as $100,000 for some elite programs and $20,000 for smaller teams. “Talking to a lot of Division I coaches—and I used to coach at the Division I level—many think the regional meet is gone,” Asher says. “I don’t know if that’s going to happen, but that’s the consensus out there. A lot of the mid-major or low-major programs aren’t going to be able to afford to go to a regional meet.” Several NCAA Division III conferences are looking to stretch budgets by reducing travel costs. The Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference, for example, will now schedule 10 percent fewer games and meets than permitted by Division III in all sports. Other measures include a more clearly defined travel squad size for each sport, a conference-wide lodging program, and increased multiteam travel. In addition, visiting teams will now have the ability to use campus dining halls at their host schools when feasible.
don’t know if there is another one like it in the world.” Turnbull convinced the BendLaPine School District to pay for the track by thinking in the long term. “We talked about it from a business perspective in terms of what the return on investment would be,” he says. “In our cold climate the water gets down into sprayon surfaces, freezes, and then expands, which makes the track crumble. But water can’t get in and do that to this surface. The new track is also allowing us to put on better events.” The first big meet Summit hosted on the track was the Adidas Clear Choice Oregon Elite. Held in May, it brought in the state’s best track and field athletes from all six high school classifications. Next year, Summit will host a col-
legiate meet that Boise State University has committed to, and may also feature Oregon State University, Portland State University, the University of Portland, and the University of Nevada. Turnbull is also trying to schedule Masters competitions, the small school state championships, and Junior Olympic meets.
a 23.69 in the 200 meters during the Oregon Elite meet and that broke a 40-year-old high school state record held by Margaret Johnson Bailes, who was an eventual Olympic gold medalist,” says Turnbull. “The runners are also not getting as many shin splints as in the past because the track is more resilient.
“At first, the community was a little worried about the expense,” says Turnbull. “But now that people have run on it and have seen the amount of income coming to our city because of the facility, they’re supporting it. We’re paying back the investment just from competing athletes and their families staying in our hotels and eating in our restaurants.”
“There’s a great sense of pride in having something like this,” he continues. “Expense is always a challenge, but you have to look at it as a longterm investment.”
Summit athletes are also reaping the rewards. “One of our girls [junior Kellie Schueler] ran
Two Clinics in One Every year, high school athletes suffer nearly two million injuries that force them to the sideline. John Hayes, Head Boys’ Coach at Northland Pines High School in Eagle
A Great Investment This past season, track and field athletes at Summit High School in Bend, Ore., began running like 2008 Olympic competitors—or at least on the same surface. Summit became the first high school in Oregon, and one of only a handful in the nation, to install Mondotrack, the same track surface on which five Olympic records were set in Beijing. The nine-lane track was finished last October and is accompanied by four longjump runways and high-jump, javelin, shot-put, discus, and pole vault surfaces. “It’s a unique performance venue,” says Summit Head Boys’ and Girls’ Coach Dave Turnbull. “I
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Kellie Schueler, a sprinter from Summit High School in Bend, Ore., wins the 100-meter dash at the Adidas Clear Choice Oregon Elite, the first large meet held at Summit’s new track. Schueler also broke a 40-year-old state record in the 200-meter run during the meet, which attracted top high school athletes from all six of the state’s classifications.
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LOCKER ROOM BULLETIN BOARD seminars offered great information that I don’t think a lot of coaches get.” Overall, coaches who attended this year’s summit reported that it was time well spent. “They absolutely loved it,” Hayes says. “The coaches walked away with a wealth of knowledge, and talked about how much they had learned about the different types of injuries and how to care for injured athletes.” Hayes, Lowry, and company are already planning an encore performance for next year, with an increased emphasis on publicizing the summit. This year, brochures advertising the event were sent out to coaches of the athletes attending the Eagle Track Camp and were distributed at the Wisconsin Track Coaches Association seminar. Next year, to reach more coaches, Hayes says he might use social media vehicles like Facebook and Twitter.
Injuries may be a reality in track and field, but coaches who are educated in preventing and treating them are in a better position to help their athletes. John Hayes, Head Boys’ Coach at Northland Pines High School in Eagle River, Wis., has begun a sports medicine clinic for coaches in his area that is free of charge and uses the expertise of local medical professionals. River, Wis., wondered if a little education could help bring that number down—at least in his neck of the woods. That’s why Hayes and a team of local sports medicine professionals organized the first annual Northwoods Sports Injury Summit for coaches this past February.
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Ths summit began at 9 a.m. with opening remarks from Lowry and concluded at 2:20 p.m., when Dr. Jim Mullen finished his seminar on off-season training programs. In between, the day was filled with demonstrations of sports medicine techniques and practices by a panel of local doctors, ath-
letic trainers, and other medical professionals with diverse backgrounds and specialties. Among the topics discussed were head injuries, care of athletes with diabetes, nutrition and hydration, hands on demonstrations of AED (Automated External Defibrillator) use, and a review of common shoulder, ankle, and knee injuries. A presentation on hamstring injuries and shin splints, the two most common injuries among track and field athletes, particularly hit home with the attending coaches, says Hayes, and the crash course on how to use an AED in the event of an emergency was also popular. “AED use is a hot topic,” he says. “Every school seems to have an AED machine, but not many people know how to use it. All of the
For more information, contact John Hayes at: jhayes@npsd.k12. wi.us.
D-I Coaches Form Strategic Group After coaching for four decades, including 20-plus years heading up the University of Missouri program and three years as President of the NCAA Division I branch of the
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The idea was hatched when Hayes was dealing with an injury of his own. While in the hospital preparing for knee surgery, Hayes and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Kent Jason Lowry started talking. “Dr. Lowry mentioned that he had discussed the idea of hosting a medical clinic just for coaches with some of his friends, and they thought it was a good idea,” Hayes recalls. “I suggested we do it on the same day as our track camp.”
From there, Hayes and Lowry pooled their resources with a goal of hosting a free clinic to teach high school coaches how to recognize injuries in their athletes and prevent them from occurring. By offering the clinic on the same day as Hayes’s annual Eagle Track and Field camp, which draws some of Wisconsin’s top track athletes and coaches, and using Lowry’s local connections in sports medicine, the pieces came together perfectly.
They will also continue to offer the clinic free of charge. Hayes says there was no cost involved with the summit since the medical personnel volunteered their time and the facility was already under contract with the coinciding track camp. Even with the struggling economy, Hayes does not see the event as an opportunity to make money. “Our goal is not to make a profit,” Hayes says, “but to offer education to coaches.”
U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association, Rick McGuire has had countless conversations with fellow coaches about the sport. But he is still searching for an answer to one very big question: How do we make NCAA Division I track and field more valued? “We don’t know who we are as a sport,” says McGuire, who just finished his threeyear term as Division I President of the coaching association. “In leading the Division I group, I realized the reason why it’s been very difficult for us to come to a consensus about any issue we encounter is because we don’t know what the true identity of Division I track and field is. “We have kids competing in the same meets with kids who are redshirting,” he continues.
“We rarely keep score, which makes it hard to communicate to the public what’s going on because there are no winners and losers. We don’t even have a consensus on what events should be in our meets.” Those thoughts led Maguire to take the lead in forming the Strategic Planning Committee earlier this year. A group of 25 Division I head coaches, the committee is charged with figuring out exactly what the sport of track and field should be about at the top collegiate level and how to keep it viable. “Track and field is a great sport that some perceive to be in trouble because we don’t have 50,000 people in the stands,” McGuire says. “We’re always getting the question, ‘What is wrong with track and field?’ There’s really
Mark Young, Director of Track and Field and Cross Country at Yale University, is chairing NCAA Division I’s new Strategic Planning Committee, which is charged with figuring out exactly what the sport of track and field should be about at the top collegiate level and how to keep it viable.
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LOCKER ROOM BULLETIN BOARD nothing wrong with track and field. In U.S. high schools and youth programs, it’s the sport with the most female participants and is second only to football for boys. The only problem is that we’ve made it very hard to understand.
role of Division I coaches, and the final group will talk about the student-athlete experience. McGuire has asked each subcommittee to create a three- to five-year plan to present to Division I leadership.
“There are 300 Division I institutions that sponsor track and hundreds of coaches involved,” McGuire continues. “We’re all smart people who have a lot to contribute to this sport. The mission of the Strategic Planning Committee is to figure out how we can use our strength to make track and field and our role as coaches more valuable and valued.”
“I hope that this will make us proactive and give our association some direction instead of us continuing to react to everything,” McGuire says. “This is a big task with a lot of voices, and it’s going to take some time. I have directly challenged every member of the Strategic Planning Committee to not be distracted by differences and to listen to each other. The way we were operating in the past has to stop or we will never be a viable, accessible group of coaches.”
Committee members include coaches from both men’s and women’s programs, from schools with big budgets and those struggling to keep their programs alive, and from HBCUs. Some members have little Division I experience, while others boast multiple national championships. Mark Young, Director of Track and Field and Cross Country at Yale University, is chairing the committee.
The group has been broken down into four subcommittees that will each handle a different area. The first will tackle issues related to the identity of track and field as a sport, another will look at the business side of collegiate track and field, a third has been charged with examining the
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With over 350 followers, Thomas uses Twitter in concert with the team’s Web site to provide the most up-to-date information on the program. When results are updated or a Kentucky athlete makes headlines, Thomas sends a Tweet linking to the site. He also uses it to make athletes’ loved ones feel like part of the Kentucky program. “A lot of the athletes we recruit are from far away, and if I can keep their families and friends
in the loop, I feel like I’m doing my part to give back to those athletes,” says Thomas, who coaches Kentucky’s jump and multi-event athletes. “My own mother follows us and loves it,” he continues. “Before, she was calling me after every meet asking how the athletes did. Now she can follow along as things happen and know the results on every single person.” Before using Twitter to update the world about Kentucky track and field, Thomas initially utilized the site with only his athletes. “My first Tweet was one that alerted my jump
A Tool Called Twitter When University of Kentucky athletes have a good day on the track, their friends and family hear about it right away. And when the team’s flight home from the SEC Championships was delayed this spring, those same people were informed immediately. The fast and efficient communication to Kentucky track followers is thanks to Twitter— as well as Assistant Men’s and Women’s Coach James Thomas’s prowess in using the new social media tool. Twitter calls for users to write short messages (140 characters or less) answering the question, “What are you doing?” The messages, called Tweets, are posted on the sender’s Twitter page and sent to other users who have signed up to “follow” them. Tweets, which often contain links to Web pages or pictures, can be posted and read from either mobile devices like cell phones or on the Web at: Twitter.com. Users can also
At the University of Kentucky, Assistant Men’s and Women’s Coach James Thomas is communicating with his athletes and followers of the program through Twitter. “It doesn’t take a lot of my time to do, so I’m giving it a try and seeing what we can get out of it,” he says. Above, Thomas advises jumper David Banks at the 2009 SEC Indoor Championships.
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cheryl treworgy/University of kentucky
“It is a very diverse group and everyone will have a chance to have their voice heard,” McGuire says. “Every Division I coach got an e-mail from me announcing this committee and explaining exactly what was going to be happening, along with the roster. Every coach is invited to share any ideas they have with me or any member of the committee. Our intention is to be as transparent as possible throughout this process.”
send direct messages to specific followers or allow only approved followers to view their posts.
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LOCKER ROOM BULLETIN BOARD athletes that practice was being changed to half an hour later,” says Thomas, who has been Tweeting since March. “Using it with them, I realized how easy and effective it was for group communication, so I decided to use it programwide.”
ting inside waiting and preparing for their events. Twitter gives me a way to keep those people inside informed about what’s happening on the track,” he says. “It’s also my way of staying involved in areas other than the jump events because I’m always
The NCAA has said that using Twitter in recruiting is permitted as long as coaches do not violate general rules prohibiting comments about specific recruits. As with any form of technology, the secret to getting the
“I probably send five or 10 Tweets a day, though I certainly could do more. I don’t want our followers to have their phones buzzing non-stop during the day ... I try to limit my messages to good performances or a story I know people will want to follow.” Thomas also finds Twitter extremely helpful for communicating with athletes during meets. “There are a lot of times when some of our athletes are out on the track competing and others are sit-
checking in and posting our top scores and times.” While some coaches are using Twitter to reach out to recruits, Kentucky is not doing so, at least for now.
most out of Twitter lies in the user’s ability to use it without abusing it. At Kentucky, that means practicing some restraint. “I probably send five or 10 Tweets a day, though I certainly could do more,”
Thomas says. “I don’t want our followers to have their phones buzzing non-stop during the day with Tweets from me. I try to limit my messages to good performances or a story I know people will want to follow. “But really, I’m learning as I go,” he adds. “I may expand my use to include links to photos or videos. It could get a lot bigger, or it could just be a trendy phase that goes away. But right now it doesn’t take a lot of my time to do, so I’m giving it a try and seeing what we can get out of it.”
To follow Thomas and the Kentucky program on Twitter, go to: www.twitter.com/ KentuckyTrack.
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Q&A
Michael Friess
University of Alaska-Anchorage
During the 2008-09 school year, Michael Friess, Head Men’s and Women’s Coach at the University of Alaska-Anchorage, learned how to take the bad with the good. He was named the NCAA Division II Outdoor Men’s West Region Coach of the Year, sent a school-record 10 athletes to the national championship spring meet where the men’s squad finished 14th, and saw five of his athletes capture All-American honors. But he also lost the opportunity to compete for a conference title due to a H1N1 (swine) flu scare, and his team was stranded in California for a week when a volcano erupted in Alaska. Also UAA’s Head Cross Country Coach, this past fall, Friess watched the biker leading runners at the
CM: How did you work through the bumps in the road this year? Friess: We dealt with a lot that was beyond our control. For example, at our West Regional Championship for cross country, the biker leading the runners took a wrong turn. Race organizers stopped the race and then restarted it so competitors ran 16 kilometers in intense heat rather than the standard 10. One of our runners [Paul Rottich] became dehydrated and collapsed, and it took a long time for the ambulance to get there.
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Athletes were frustrated because they were trying to qualify for the national championship and were ready to put it all on the line. My runners handled it well— probably better than I did. The best teams still qualified for the national meet, but I’m not certain how much that regional meet took out of some athletes and caused them to perform poorly at the national championships two weeks later. Then Mount Redoubt erupted this spring, shutting down the Anchorage airport when we were at a meet in San Francisco. We remained in California during the week since we had another meet there the following weekend. The biggest issue was academics, and fortunately we have a very
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West Regional Championship get lost and extend the race. Overall, the good news still trumped the bad for Friess, who has been at UAA for 19 years. Track and field has been fully sponsored for only five years, but has already produced 11 All-Americans, 25 Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) champions, and one national champion. Friess has also coached 104 GNAC All-Academic team members in the past eight seasons between track and field and cross country. Friess is a U.S. Track and Field Level II coach, a National Strength and Conditioning Association certified strength and conditioning specialist, and an exercise test technologist and exercise specialist certified by the American College of Sports Medicine. Here, he discusses dealing with adversity, building his program, and contemplating other coaching offers.
good group of student-athletes who were able to contact instructors and had very few problems staying on top of their academic schedules. Our last turnabout was the cancellation of our conference championship meet due to a swine flu scare at host Western Oregon University. A lot of our athletes were going to be competitive at that meet, and for them to see their season end so abruptly just as they were attempting to win a team championship was disappointing. We did the same thing we had been doing the whole year, which was taking the adversity and focusing on what we could control. I told our athletes that I understood their disappointment, but to use it as a life lesson—there are bigger things in the world than track and field. Health, happiness, and safety come above our sport. I wanted them to understand why the decision was made to cancel the meet and if they
David Registe finished 2nd in the long jump at the NCAA Division II outdoor nationals this spring, helping UAA place 14th at the meet.
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Q&A had a similar responsibility, they would need to focus on what’s most important. Did you coach differently last year compared to less successful seasons? We’ve had a lot of things working for us the past few years. We’ve recruited some good athletes, which always makes you look like a better coach. We also had facility upgrades that really helped us. Previously, we did not have an indoor track, but two years ago, a private non-profit group built a large sports dome that contains a 400-meter indoor track. That’s helped us develop not only in our distance running, which has traditionally been the strength of our program, but also our sprinters, hurdlers, and jumpers.
“I have seen a lot of coaches who sit back and wait for their administration to give them what they think they need rather than working hard to help the administration ... It’s important to be active in the department and the university as a whole and engage in the community.”
What advice would you have for other coaches about building a program? Accept responsibility for it. I have seen a lot of coaches who sit back and wait for their administration to give them what they think they need rather than working hard to help the administration. If you feel like someone owes you something, you should probably find another career path. It’s important to be active in the department and the university as a whole and engage in the community.
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For example, my staff and I have worked with numerous nonprofit organizations from the American Heart Association to the Multiple Sclerosis Society to the American Cancer Society. That showed our administration that we were willing to fundraise and be active in the community. I also strived hard to take on some economic responsibility for my team. If I wanted to purchase specific weight training equipment or wanted to buy treadmills, I took it upon myself to raise that money.
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When we first started we didn’t even have a stopwatch and we had to borrow a local high school’s timing device. Now we have well over $75,000 worth of high-end timing equipment. We just put on our Mayor’s Marathon that had participants from 46 states and 16 countries, and profited over $80,000 for the athletic department. It’s all about working hard, enjoying what you do, and getting involved with the community—that’s how positive things happen.
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You had seven athletes from Kenya on your team last year. Do you recruit in that area? Yes, but it didn’t start that way. Our first athlete from Kenya was David Kiplagat, who just graduated in May, and it took us about a year and a half to evaluate whether it was going to be a proper fit. I wanted to do right by him and make sure he would be able to graduate—that was a big deal for me. He thrived, and that led to his brother, sister, and some cousins coming over. This year we branched out to pursue other athletes who weren’t connected to that family. These athletes are very thankful for the opportunities being presented to them. Their teammates see how hard they work and it inspires everyone to work harder. It’s been very good for our program and we feel like we’ve been a positive influence in the lives of some kids that really needed help. David received a scholarship and he worked a lot on campus. With the money he sent home, he raised the level of living for his family in Kenya. That allowed a
lot of his siblings to complete elementary and high school and elevated his family from fairly severe poverty to a more stable status. It makes me feel like I’m really making an impact and giving a kid a chance to succeed. How do you acclimate international athletes? The biggest thing is proper academic counseling and getting them into the right classes. If you focus on school first, and they feel good about the progress they are making as a student, they feel stable. Then it’s just about communication. They’re going through life just like the rest of us, so they have a lot of ups and downs. Don’t ignore that and make sure you keep an open door. As coaches, we love to give advice, but we need to listen more. If you can better understand
where your student-athletes are coming from and their unique perspective, that improves their comfort level and transition from high school to college. How do you make sure your athletes are performing well academically? Like most programs, we have required study hall and academic progress reports. While those are necessary, they’re not the reason we have good student-athletes. We tend to recruit good students and if you have a backbone of good students, then other students who come into the program have proper role models. When we’re on a plane and three quarters of our students have their books open and are studying, it’s a powerful motivator for the other athletes. It’s also about communication—asking athletes personally how they are doing in class. I get reports from their instructors,
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Q&A but I try to talk with each of our athletes about their academics every week. What are the challenges of recruiting for a school in Alaska? The biggest thing is dispelling myths. Our weather is no less severe than the northern half of the Continental U.S., but people think everything in Alaska is iced over, cold, and dark. We get them here and they realize, “Wow, this is nothing like we ever thought it was going to be.” We tell them they can come to Alaska and experience the adventure it has to offer while not diminishing their track and field experience. How does your background in exercise physiology influence your coaching style? It allows me a better understanding of the kind of training you need to succeed. You don’t train today’s athletes the same way your coach trained you. If you are going to use a certain workout, know the physiological basis for it and understand what you are trying to accomplish. For example, we had a female who finished fourth in the nation in the 400 one
year and was an All-American two years in a row—and we basically trained her on treadmills. This was before the indoor facility was built. Most people forget that track and field is about strength, power, and explosiveness. You can train an awful lot of that without even stepping on a track. Have you considered other job offers? Over time, you want to raise your head up and see what else is out there. I was offered the head coaching position at Cal-Poly Pomona and I almost accepted it, but declined for a lot of reasons. Mostly, the timing wasn’t right. I was also offered the job at the University of Montana, but it wasn’t until August, and at that point moving my family was going to be a big deal. I also felt strongly that I had athletes here who I had committed to. To leave them only a few weeks before the start of the season wouldn’t have been right. It doesn’t mean I’m not going to look elsewhere in the future. But it will be more about trying to expand our experiences rather than any deficits that
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Anchorage has. I found out when looking at other jobs that UAA really supports our program and coaching staff at a very high level. I have gotten spoiled a little and I don’t think I understood that until I looked elsewhere. How did you communicate with your administration during the search process? I was open and honest. The first person on my reference list is my athletic director. If I didn’t want to be sneaky. I communicated to him when I felt I was going to be considered as a strong candidate and he was very understanding and willing to help in any way he could. What would lure you away? A very positive administration. Not just an administration that is going to give me everything I want, but one that listens and allows me a little bit of freedom to explore opportunities and grow. If I really feel like something is a good idea and makes sense economically, I would be encouraged to move forward on it. If you work at any place for 19 years, you can’t help but wonder what other adventures are out there.
MORE FOR LESS BY mike phelps
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hen Hood College began its men’s and women’s track and field programs at the club level in 2003, Head Coach Brent Ayer worked with just six athletes. Two years later, the roster grew to 16 as the teams made the leap to varsity status. Participation numbers have been on the rise ever since, but the paid coaching staff remains the same—just Ayer and one assistant, Scott Rippeon.
To fill the staff, Ayer relies on a group of talented non-paid coaches. “Our whole program is basically run with volunteers,” Ayer says. “I’m extremely dependent on these guys to help make our teams as successful as they can be.” Hood’s volunteer staff ranges from a three-time U.S. Olympic track and field coach to a physical education instructor at nearby Frederick Community College. Each coach serves a specific purpose and is vital to Ayer’s program. “There are 19 different events con-
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At the University of Tennessee, volunteer assistants David Job (far left) and Charlie Simpkins (above) helped Head Women’s Coach J.J. Clark (center) lead his team to an NCAA Division I indoor championship this winter and a 10th place finish at outdoor nationals this spring.
How do you stretch a small coaching staff into a large one in these times of tight budgets? By welcoming volunteer assistants onto your squad. Here, top coaches give advice on making the idea work. tested at the college level, and any track coach who passes himself off as an expert in all 19 is lying,” Ayer says. “You also can’t be everywhere at once. For at least two years, I was running over to spend 10 minutes with the jumpers, 10 minutes with the throwers, 10 minutes with the sprinters, and so on. That’s just an unenviable way to try to create good habits and proper technique.” Volunteer assistants are also integral at larger programs like the University of Tennessee’s women’s squad. The aptly
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named Volunteers have two longtime coaches lending their unpaid services to UT’s cause, and also find help from track and field athletes fresh out of college. “I take the volunteer role very seriously because they’re going to be part of our program and hopefully help us win conference and national meets,” says Tennessee Head Women’s Coach J.J. Clark. “I really appreciate the time these people give to our team, and I want them to feel a part of the squad.”
Free help is a necessary part of the high school track and field scene, too. At Downingtown East High School in Exton, Pa., between 150 and 180 boys and girls participate in the outdoor season each year. With only enough money in the budget for six paid coaches, volunteers are necessary just to keep track of all the athletes. Mike Phelps is an Assistant Editor at Coaching Management. He can be reached at: mp@MomentumMedia.com.
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“We try to get as many people as we can,” says Head Boys’ Coach George Read. “We need as many hands on deck as possible.” But successfully implementing volunteers into your program isn’t as easy as saying, “On your mark, get set, go!” It’s important to have a plan in place for how to use your volunteers, as well as making sure they fit within the existing dynamic of your program. You also need to help the volunteer coaches grow in their roles and get the most out of their experience. The Right Fit Montana State University Head Men’s and Women’s Coach Dale Kennedy used volunteer assistants sporadically throughout his first quarter-century on the job. But over the past two years, he has welcomed five volunteers to his staff, whom he says have been a great asset to the program. Over time, Kennedy has developed a philosophy on utilizing volunteer assistants, which starts with the hiring process. Even though he is not technically “hiring” this person for pay, Kennedy believes vetting a volunteer coach is critical. “I always bring any potential volunteers into my office for a visit,” he says. “I want to know what quality of person we’re getting. Someone may be
extremely knowledgeable about a specific event or the sport in general, but deadly for our program. “It’s important to have the people who come in understand our athletic department mission statement, our track and field mission statement, and the philosophy of our program,” Kennedy continues. “You must have support throughout the program. And you certainly can’t have people talking behind your back.” It is also a good idea to ask them why they are volunteering. “I’m always screening to find their motive,” Kennedy says. “Do they love the sport? Do they have a passion for teaching and working with kids? Understanding their motives will determine if the person is a good fit for your program.” Finally, Kennedy checks their integrity. “I need to find out if they exhibit the kind of lifestyle that is demanded by our athletic department,” he says. “Everybody sees everything you do, even if you’re a volunteer, so you have to be accountable for your behavior in the community. Just because you’re not being paid doesn’t mean you don’t have any responsibility.” Clark is another head coach who takes the time to talk to potential volunteers. First he looks for someone who fully understands the role. “I need to know if a volunteer can take direction,”
EVen though volunteer assistant coaches receive no pay, you may still be liable if they make mistakes. That’s why the school policy at Cherokee High School in Marlton, N.J., doesn’t allow volunteer assistants to be alone on the track without a paid coach in attendance. “The basic guidelines for volunteers are the same as they are for paid coaches,” says Cherokee Head Girls’ Coach Mark Jarvis. “But the volunteers can’t be alone on the track with student-athletes. It’s usually not an issue because the staff is always on the track together. I don’t have to be standing 10 feet away shadowing, just in the vicinity.”
Brent Ayer, Head Men’s and Women’s Coach at Hood College, discusses many types of precautions with a volunteer coach before he or she works with student-athletes. “We’ll talk about things like proper safety concepts, as well as appropriate ways to teach and relate to this age group,” he says. “The volun-
he says. “If they can’t take my direction, they won’t be a good fit.” Clark also asks new volunteers to develop sample workouts based on specific situations for him to review. “For example, if there’s a meet on Saturday, what would you do in your workout Friday afternoon?” he says. Mark Jarvis, Head Girls’ Coach at Cherokee High School in Marlton, N.J., did not actually interview either of his two volunteer assistants, as one was involved with the program before he took over and he already knew the other. But he does agree that volunteer coaches need to fit the program. “The people who have stuck it out here, bought into the system, and stayed around are like-minded,” says Jarvis, who has coached at Cherokee since 2001. “I’m a pretty laid back person in general and my volunteer coaches are the same way. I think that’s why we’ve been able to work well together for so long.” On The Track Once on board, how you use your volunteer assistants is critical to making the situation work. At Montana State, Kennedy is careful to give them jobs that allow some ownership but not too much responsibility. “Our volunteer assistants aren’t generally here long enough that I would turn
teers must also understand that they are bosses, not friends of the athletes.” That can be especially difficult when a volunteer coach is a recent graduate. “Some of these coaches could, in theory, be the same age as the student-athletes they’re coaching,” Ayer says. “There needs to be an understanding that as a volunteer coach, you’re not one of them. Even if the athletes were teammates of theirs at one time, that is no longer the case. We tell our younger volunteers, ‘You can’t go out and socialize with the athletes the same way you would if they were your teammates.’”
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a complete event area over to them,” Kennedy says. “Our student-athletes need the stability of a full-time coach to steer them through their training and com-
volunteers are focused on one smaller group of runners, helping those athletes get through their workouts. They know how to adjust a workout and when to
“I’m always screening to find their motive. Do they love the sport? Do they have a passion for teaching and working with kids? Understanding their motives will determine if the person is a good fit for your program.” petition for the four years they’re here. So our volunteer coaches will help our full-time event coaches administer and supervise training sessions.” For example, during an afternoon, one full-time coach might be responsible for managing 20 distance runners, with volunteer assistants assigned to one segment of those 20 athletes. “All the full-time coach would do in that scenario is direct traffic,” Kennedy says. “The
stop it—they have quite a bit of responsibility that way.” And while the NCAA doesn’t permit volunteer assistants to have contact with recruits off campus, these coaches can help out during prospects’ on-campus visits. “They may conduct a campus tour or have a meal with a prospective studentathlete and their parents,” Kennedy says. “But we don’t have them serve as hosts, set up academic visits, or do any of those types
of things. That’s all left to the current student-athletes or the head event coach.” Ayer, however, takes a different approach. He believes the best way to use his volunteer assistants is to give them complete control. Each person who volunteers with Hood’s team brings a specific skill set to the table, so Ayer lets them use their expertise to the fullest capacity. “As volunteers, there are very few things I can give them, but control is one of them,” he says. “They’re in charge. If an athlete goes over to work with a volunteer coach, I’m not standing there criticizing their technique. The coach is here because I recognize they’re competent in an area.” Step By Step When working with volunteer assistants who are just starting their coaching careers, mentoring is important. That’s why Clark has them go through a progression of duties.
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“I wouldn’t have the volunteer really say or do anything for a while because they don’t know how we like to run things in our program,” Clark says. “They would start with observing practices, recording data, and helping me set up the track. Then, eventually I’ll give them a group to work with. “It’s very important to start out by just having them watch and listen,” he adds. “I take the time to discuss training methods and different types of workouts with them, and I encourage them to develop their own coaching style.” Kennedy follows a similar progression with his volunteers. When a new volunteer starts coaching at Montana State, he or she will begin slowly to become familiar with the pulse of the program. “I don’t want three different ideas going to an athlete on our team,” he says. “The message to an athlete needs to be consistent. If you’ve got an athlete getting different messages from different coaches, you’ve got a mess on your hands. “It’s okay if it takes a little while for the volunteer to see what it is we’re doing, what we believe in, and what we’re trying to teach an athlete,” Kennedy continues. “Even if the volunteer doesn’t necessarily agree with what you’re doing, there has to be one philosophy.” Eventually, a volunteer at Montana State can progress to working with his or her own group of athletes. “As long as the coach knows exactly what the goals of the workout are, he or she can
take a group of runners through their workout,” Kennedy says. “Then, I get completely out of the way and concentrate on some other group that I’m working with. “We try to expose volunteer coaches to the big picture of what it entails to administer a track and field program, but we just give them small areas to oversee,” he adds. “They want to come out and work with the kids—that’s where the fun is—and we make sure they get the opportunity to do that. They get lots of one-on-one time and the chance to develop a nice relationship with the athletes they’re working with.” Even if a volunteer has one specific area of expertise, many head coaches like to move them around to different events they may not have worked with before. For any volunteer who hopes to one day become a head coach, having a wide range of skills is critical. “I want them to do things outside their comfort zone,” Read says. “For example, I moved one coach over to shot put to teach him a new area of the track. I sent him to a clinic and had him watch videos to learn something out of his realm. We try to spread our volunteers out and teach them a little bit of everything.” Read also continually evaluates and talks to his volunteers throughout the season to give them feedback. “They don’t have a formal piece of paperwork like my paid assistants do, but the vol-
SOmetimes, even if a volunteer has the credentials and seems like a good fit for your team, it doesn’t work out. What do you do in those situations? George Read, Head Boys’ Coach at Downingtown East High School in Exton, Pa., sits down and discusses what isn’t working with the volunteer. He may also try moving the person around to work with different groups of athletes to find a better fit. “I talk it through and try to get them back to our way of thinking,” he says.
“Sometimes another area of the track works better. “But if it still isn’t working, I just have to tell them in a nice way to find somewhere else to go,” Read continues. “A lot of times, if things aren’t clicking, the volunteer coach knows it already.”
unteers get feedback from me on a dayto-day basis,” he says. “The idea is that their evaluation is ongoing. You don’t want to wait until the end of the year to tell someone they’re doing a great job or that they’re ineffective. You want to encourage or make corrections and suggestions along the way.” Veteran Volunteer When your volunteer assistant is not an up-and-coming coach, but rather a longtime friend of the program, the relationship can take a different track. The key here is to be respectful of what the person can offer and make sure he or she is in the loop at all times. “You have to be sensitive to what they want to do and can handle,” Ayer says. “One of our volunteers is retired, so he’s fairly flexible. But if your volunteer has a full-time job and is running around to a bunch of different places, you need to respect that. I try to be sensitive to their outside schedules, not be terribly demanding, and give them credit for what they’re able to accomplish.” Jarvis has two experienced volunteers who can’t always be on hand at practice, but more often than not complement each other’s schedules. “Usually, if one isn’t here, the other is,” Jarvis says. “What makes our system work is that we all have the same philosophy and we plan out our workouts ahead of time. Before the season even begins, we pretty much have all the training plans done.
For example, one of Read’s former volunteer coaches was on an Olympic development team and very knowledgeable. “But he was trying to coach college level concepts at a high school and it was tough to bring him down to our level,” Read says. “He’s since learned that and now he’s a head coach at another high school in Pennsylvania and doing a great job. He admitted to me later that he was a little overzealous when he first started here.”
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“I also like to type up a lot of workout results so even when the volunteers aren’t there, they get a chance to see what the kids are doing and still feel
Part of the Team While volunteer coaches are on your team to help your school’s student-athletes succeed, it’s important to remem-
they’re included in everything, even off the track,” he says. “When we have our preseason meetings or sign ups, they’re there. That lets them and the athletes know they’re a true part of the team.” At Tennessee, Clark’s two experienced volunteers are listed alongside the paid staff on the Vols’ Web site with full biographies. “If you looked at our Web site, you might not even realize they’re volunteers,” he says. “They travel to every meet. They get all the gear we get—including the championship rings.” The good will is well deserved because for many teams, efficiently managing a program would be next to impossible without volunteer help. “I can’t say enough about the amount of respect I have for our volunteers and how grateful I am to have them on my staff,” says Kennedy. “Our volunteers are invaluable to our program.” n
“I think one of the reasons we’ve been able to maintain a sense of continuity with our volunteers is because they’re included in everything, even off the track. When we have our preseason meetings or sign ups, they’re there. That lets them and the athletes know they’re a true part of the team.” like they’re a part of the team,” he adds. “And at meets, they’re always making notes about what certain athletes should work on at the next practice if they are not able to be there. Their desire to be involved is what’s important—not necessarily being present all the time.”
ber to make the experience positive for those who lend a helping hand. Jarvis treats all his coaches the same, regardless of pay scale, and works hard to include everyone in whatever he can. “I think one of the reasons we’ve been able to maintain a sense of continuity with our volunteers is because
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COACHING LIFE
All in the Family Before you decide to coach your son or daughter, it is helpful to know the ups and downs of the experience—and to talk through the unique challenges your relationship may face.
I
BY dr. larry lauer
Yuma (Lakewood, Colo.) High School Head Coach Jack Lubbers celebrates with daughter Emily after she won the 2009 Colorado Class 3A state pole vault title.
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t is the start of preseason and there are 101 tasks to be completed. One of those early season hurdles, the parents meeting, is usually a nobrainer. You have always felt comfortable walking into a room full of your student-athletes’ parents and discussing your rules and philosophy. But this year, the thought of the meeting is accompanied by some anxiety. One of the members of the current squad is your son, and it’s a situation you’ve never faced before. A friend tells you there is talk that you have already decided your child will be a captain and Larry Lauer, PhD, is Director of Coaching Education and Development at the Institute for the Study of Youth Sports at Michigan State University, where one of his research interests is parents’ involvement with their children’s athletic teams. He can be reached at: lauerl@msu.edu.
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run the anchor leg of the 1600-meter relay. Another rumor is that your son and his friends are receiving preferential treatment in practice. Coaching is a tough job. Unlike most professions, you work with young people under public scrutiny. Furthermore, people tend to measure success and failure only by titles and broken records, not the teaching you do in practice. Now you are going to add to the pressure by coaching your own child? Sharing a team experience with a son or daughter can be a wonderful, positive opportunity, but it can also be a disaster. Before you embark on the endeavor, there are some areas to think through and decisions to be made. Pros & Cons Veteran high school and collegiate coach Jerry Reeder is a proponent of coaching one’s own child. He has coached his two sons, and encourages other coaches to do the same. “It is an opportunity to share in their successes and failures, and it strengthens
your bond with your child,” Reeder says. “You can laugh and cry with them and that is what makes a relationship stronger. It is a fantastic opportunity most parents don’t get to have.” There are other benefits, too. A child can learn to understand and respect the profession of the parent. And the parent can have new insight into his or her child’s interactions with teammates, authority figures, and opponents. Furthermore, parent-coaches can observe, in the trenches, their child’s reactions to losing, winning, and many other situations that reveal their character. It can also help parents form a less biased view of their child’s abilities. On the flip side, coaching your son or daughter can put you, your child, and the team in a precarious position. The most obvious concern is the almost automatic reaction from others that your child will receive favoritism—more attention from you, which means less attention on their own child. Reeder felt this was the greatest threat. “You have to do your best to negate any
perceived favoritism,” he says. “If you don’t, it can divide a program.” The second concern comes from a reaction to perceived favoritism: being too hard on your child. Parent-coaches can be tougher on their kid because they expect more, putting more pressure on the child. The frustration of the child is, “Why do you expect more of me than anyone else?” Coach Reeder found himself sometimes being hard on his sons. He cautions that this can be detrimental to family life, creating tension between parent and child, and even between spouses. This leads to the third concern, which is the inability of the adolescent to separate the parent’s coaching role from the parenting role. At practice you may give your child negative feedback, thinking what’s on the track stays on the track. In reality, it does not. “You are not going home with the other athletes on the team and living with them 24/7,” Reeder warns. “The situation can put pressure on the child and strain the parent-child relationship.”
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Is It Right For You? So how do you know if the positives will outweigh the negatives for you and your child? To start, take some time to think about why you want to coach a team with your child on it. If the reason is to make sure your son or daughter reaches their potential and goes on to the next level, you may be heading down the wrong road. If it’s because you want to mend a difficult relationship you have with your child, that’s another misguided reason. However, if you have been coaching the team for a while, your relationship with your child is on solid ground, and you like the idea of sharing the team experience with him or her, you are off to a good start. The next step is to think about how the situation will affect your son or daughter. Talk openly to your child about the realities of coaching them, as well as the payoffs and pitfalls. And then, listen. Some children handle being coached by a parent better than others. It is your job to find out if your child is willing and able. Sometimes, a parent is eagerly antici-
pating coaching their child on a varsity team, not realizing that the child is actually dreading it. Teenage years are ones of learning to be independent of your parents, and having a parent involved in your extracurricular activity can cause resentment. On top of that, the child may worry that he or she will be treated differently by friends on the team if mom or dad is coach. In addition, discuss the situation with your spouse. Talk honestly about whether your child will be able to deal with the prospect of you being tough on them in practice. Consider these questions: n Knowing my child, how will he or she respond to me as a coach? n Will my child be able to separate my parent and coach roles? n How well will I be able to separate my roles as coach and parent? n Will it create strain within our family? Finally, assess how the parent-coach role will work for you. Think about what type of coach you are and whether that will create strain between you and your
child. For example, are you overbearing as a coach? If you are, you likely will be too hard on your child. Also, consider how the members of the team, and their parents, would respond to you coaching your own child. Keep in mind that a longtime coach with a history at a school will be given more leeway and respect that he or she is coaching the team, not just their child. If you choose to coach a team just as your son or daughter joins it, parents will assume you place your child’s interests first and you will have to prove otherwise. Laying The Groundwork For those brave of heart and willing to coach their child in interscholastic sport, you still should not jump into it headlong. Instead, you need to prepare a game plan so that the situation does not negatively affect your relationship with your child, the team, or your child’s performance. Reeder feels that laying out ground rules is particularly important. First, you have to know how you are going to deal
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with any team-related disciplinary issues with your child. In Reeder’s case, he had his assistants handle it to help keep the parent-coach roles separate. The second ground rule Reeder communicated to his sons was that they must treat him like any other coach and not expect preferential treatment. At this time, a coach may even want to talk about why he or she might be a little harder on the child and how that
shouldn’t be taken personally, but as an attempt to make the team realize there is no favoritism. Another area to navigate is how to best separate the parent and coach roles. For Reeder, it worked well for his sons to call him “Coach” while around the team. “When we stepped on the practice field, I was Coach Reeder, not Dad,” he says. “That’s how they would address and treat me.”
Shelby Chancellor is well-versed in the shot put and discus throw. The recent graduate from Permian High School in Odessa, Texas, has been competing in both events since she was in the fourth grade. But she had never thrown a javelin before deciding to enter the event on the spot at the Dan Cepero Memorial Track and Field meet this spring.
She had 10 minutes to learn the technique from her Head Coach, Carl Chancellor, who is also her dad, and the situation triggered a familiar exchange between father and daughter. “I was showing her some basics of the standing throw and the javelin wasn’t going anywhere,” says Carl. “There was another gentleman there who pretty much told her the same things that I had told her. She listened to him, responded to him, and threw far considering it was her first time. I thanked the gentleman for helping and he said, ‘You know coach, I’m not dad, so it’s a whole lot easier for her to listen to me.’” Shelby ended up tossing the javelin 52 feet, five inches, which gave her first place in the event and, combined with her shot put and discus performances, the most points for a female at the meet. “I know deep down she realizes that dad knows best,” says Carl. “It wasn’t defiance by her not doing what I wanted. It was just hard because I expect a lot from her.” Carl has coached his daughter on summer teams for eight years and on Permian’s varsity team for the past four. He believes Shelby sometimes responds better to others’ instruction in part because it is simply a different voice and in part because she feels less pressure. Carl was a world-class discuss thrower who qualified for the 1988 and ‘92 Olympic trials. ( He couldn’t compete in either due to knee and back surgeries.) “Our biggest challenge was separating dad from coach,” says Carl. “At the district championship meet this year I expected her to win, but she got in the ring and fouled twice. Tension built up because she was trying to please dad, and also wanting to please coach because the team needed the points. At the championship level, that pressure really seemed to shine through more than during the rest of the season.”
It’s also important for the coach to be ready to shift into the specific roles. When coaching, take a coaching mindset and treat your child like any other member of the team, always being realistic about their abilities. And when you are a parent, be a parent. Provide unconditional love and support away from the track. Try not to bring things home that happened in practices and meets. Refrain from turn-
Carl tried separating the roles by funneling coaching instruction through his assistant coaches. He also tried to heed advice from his mother, who started the track and field program at Permian and coached Carl’s sister in volleyball. “My mom was very adamant that when practice is over, you leave practice,” says Carl. “You need to go home and be dad. It took me a while to do that because we would get home and log on to the computer to watch throwing videos. I wasn’t able to completely leave the coaching side behind for a while.” Now, he is convinced that the separation of the two roles is critical. “If you bring it home, there are going to be problems, not just with you and your child, but amongst the rest of the family because all the conversation turns to the sport,” says Carl. “Then the parent-child relationship is about coaching instead of about being a mom or dad.” Carl and Shelby never had a formal conversation about him coaching her because Shelby’s throwing career started on a whim when she accompanied him to a meet during the summer while he was coaching a club team. “We hadn’t broached the topic of throwing at all and I asked her if she wanted to participate and she said yes,” says Carl. “She had about five minutes to learn to throw and she was very successful. She picked it up quickly, continued with it, and eventually qualified for the National Junior Olympics.” Even if Carl’s direct advice didn’t always translate into performance improvements for Shelby, it didn’t go unnoticed. Over time, she displayed an appreciation for his experience and developed leadership qualities. “I heard her tell the other athletes, ‘My dad knows what he is talking about, so you need to listen to what he’s saying,’” says Carl. “She would also step up and take over when things weren’t going as they should in warmups or team meetings.” With Shelby’s future track career now in the hands of coaches at New Mexico Junior College, Carl looks back on the years coaching his daughter as very positive. “I felt so honored to be her coach,” he says. “But I feel even more honored to be her father.” —Kyle Garratt
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ing dinner table conversation into coaching critiques. And talk about things other than sport with your child. Finally, consider communicating openly about the situation with your team. Reeder felt it was critical to talk to his players about the situation in the first meeting. Let your athletes know your expectations in terms of having respect for you and each other. When meeting with parents, be clear about how you will determine captains and members of relay teams. Also, clarify that assistants have a role in making these decisions and will help to keep it fair. Finally, reinforce the fact that the athletic director will be monitoring the situation to make sure it is handled well. Reeder says that meeting this head-on was important to staving off potential problems on his teams. In-Season Assessment Having ground rules in place will set you on the right course for this endeavor, but you will also need to assess the situation throughout the season.
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While coaching, it is important that you become very observant of your behaviors and of your child’s reactions. Is your child feeling pressure? Do problems at practices or games come home? Are your conversations dominated by sport? Is the team becoming divided or isolating your child? Is your child not talking to you, or always arguing with you? It’s a great idea to ask a trusted assistant to observe you while coaching to see if you are playing favorites, or are being too tough on your child. Sometimes when you are in the middle of coaching it is hard to be self-aware. If any problems arise, it is time to have a heart-to-heart with your child. Revisit the discussions you had before you made the decision to coach your child so you can both think through your actions. Talk about how you both might do a better job of separating the coach and parent roles. If needed, meet with the team to talk about fairness issues. If rumors surface that you are playing favorites, it is important to address this head on, even though it will be
uncomfortable. Talk to trusted parents about what the concerns are and if they are related to any particular coaching decisions. Then, determine how best to squash the rumors. Depending on the specific situation, you may choose to meet privately with those affected or set a team meeting to discuss concerns. A proactive way to minimize rumors is to have an e-mail newsletter sent to all team members’ parents discussing your philosophy, the team’s training methods, and how the season is progressing. Coaching your child can be a wonderful experience, but it also can create problems, some of which are not completely within your control. Your child will experience your involvement differently than any other athlete you have coached. But if you think through the decision, lay the groundwork, and monitor the situation, it can be some of the best times of both of your lives. n A version of this article is appearing in other sport-specific editions of Coaching Management.
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OPTIMUM PERFORMANCE
Strength Through Sleep
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naomi shea
BY Art Horne
n the past decade, recovery has become one of the hottest buzzwords in the athletic performance world. Athletes today go to great lengths to ensure that their post-workout habits help them recover optimally after practices, weightroom sessions, and competitions—whether that means following a special nutrition program, performing a carefully planned cooldown routine, or using a modality such as hydrotherapy.
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Recent research shows that there is one very easy way for athletes to enhance their workouts and performance: by getting a full night of uninterrupted sleep. With so much time and money spent on recovery aids like these, it’s ironic that many athletes overlook the most easily accessible, affordable, and timetested recovery booster of all: sleep. And the value of sleep isn’t limited to recovery. Study after study show that a good eight hours of shut-eye is critical to putting forth a strong practice or gameday performance. Yet how many athletes on your team truly take advantage of this information? If you’ve ever looked around your team
bus and seen heads bobbing up and down as players doze off during even short trips, it means they are probably sleep deprived. By educating your athletes on the topic, you can help them realize that better sleep habits—or “sleep hygiene,” as our team physician Dr. Gian Corrado has called it—can be a secret weapon to Art Horne is Associate Director of Sports Medicine at Northeastern University. He can be reached at: a.horne@neu.edu.
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improve performance and recovery. The latest research on how sleep affects mental and physical ability suggests that the time athletes spend on the pillow can be just as important as the time they spend on the track and in the weightroom.
indicates that most adults would sleep for about eight hours a night (slightly more On the physical side, studies according to some studies), have shown that the primary and high school and college students would sleep negative effect of sleep debt is for approximately nine decrease in time to exhaustion hours. This amount of time produces optimal physical during activity ... Subjects who and mental health, and in have gotten less sleep consisan ideal world, it’s the goal everyone should strive for. tently tire more quickly than What exactly goes on those who have gotten more. during those hours? Analysis of brain activity during sleep reveals that it can be broken into five unique stages. Stages one night of undisturbed sleep, we complete and two comprise what is commonly the five stages of sleep roughly every 90 referred to as light sleep, and stages three minutes. Each stage has its own function, and and four constitute deep sleep. The fifth stage, rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep, stages three and four—deep sleep—are is the dreaming stage, and in most cases it of particular importance to athletes. This occurs only after we have passed through is when the natural physical and menthe first four stages. During a typical tal processes of restoration are at their
Sleep 101 Let’s begin with a short primer on exactly how sleep works. Every human brain has a built-in clock called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which regulates our circadian rhythm. The SCN is located in the brain’s hypothalamus, just above where the optic nerves cross—and that’s important, because light exposure is one factor that can greatly affect circadian rhythms and feelings of sleepiness or alertness. If you could remove all the external elements of daily life that affect sleep patterns, including stress, schedule demands, alarm clocks, and nextdoor neighbors’ barking dogs, research
It’s the opportunity of a lifetime: Your team has been invited to a meet in
Hawai’i, or is finally taking that trip to Europe you’ve been dreaming about. After months of planning, anticipation, and excitement, the plane touches down and your athletes can’t wait to put on their running shoes. But when they meet for an early morning run, they’re groggy, out of sync, and tiring much more quickly than usual. Jet lag has set in. Adjusting to a new time zone can be a major challenge for teams that travel long distances, and unless there’s some advance planning, a dream trip can turn into a performance nightmare. Here are some pointers on making a smooth transition: n
Whenever possible, adjust runs and workout times to accommodate athletes’ internal clocks. For instance,
if you usually practice at 3 p.m. in Boston and you’re traveling to Rome (which is six hours ahead), try holding your first practice at 9 p.m. As your schedule allows, gradually move practices and even scheduled meets “backward” to ease players into the new time zone and minimize circadian rhythm disruption. Athletes may be tempted to take long naps the first few days after arriving if they’re tired out by jet lag, but this should be discouraged. It will only delay adaptation to the new time zone, as the body attempts to stick to the sleep schedule it’s used to back home. If an athlete must nap, a short doze of around 10 minutes can have some restorative effects without delaying time zone adaptation.
ule flights that will allow players to get a full night’s sleep their first night in the new time zone. n
n
Departure and arrival times can play a major role in jet lag, so try to sched-
n
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Tell athletes to avoid caffeinated foods and beverages on the plane if the team is arriving at its destination in the evening. Caffeine affects individuals differently, but for many, it can make falling asleep difficult for several hours after consumption. Remember that jet lag is worst when flying eastward, so a trip to Europe will require greater adjustment than a trip to Hawai’i, even if the actual difference in hours is the same. That’s because you “lose” hours when you travel east, winding the clock forward instead of backward. A westward trip may even afford an opportunity for players to resolve minor sleep debts by using the “gained” hours to get a great night’s sleep upon arrival.
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peak, and when growth hormone secretion occurs. Growth hormone is essential for building and rebuilding muscle and other body tissue, so when an athlete doesn’t sleep long enough to complete several cycles of deep sleep, they deprive themselves of key physiological benefits.
adequate amount of shut-eye, everything from mood to cognitive function to motor skills can suffer. But what about athletic performance in particular? From a clinical perspective, the actual definition of sleep debt is still up for debate. Several researchers have attempted to set parameters for it and quantify In Debt its effects, while others have questioned Anyone who has pulled an all-nighter whether the concept is scientifically valid is familiar with the concept of “sleep at all. For this discussion, we’ll define debt.” When the body fails to get an sleep debt as what happens when “how much a person should sleep” and “how much they actually do sleep” The mental effects of sleep are different enough debt, meanwhile, are much that physical and mental effects are noticable. more pronounced. Research has For athletic perforshown that reaction time, stress mance, both the physical level, alertness, irritability, and and mental dimensions are important. On the overall energy level or vigor are physical side, sleep-depriall negatively affected by sleep vation studies have shown that the primary negadeprivation. tive effect of sleep debt is a decrease in time to
exhaustion during activity. In prolonged performance tests, subjects who have gotten less sleep consistently tire more quickly than those who have gotten more. Other key physical parameters, such as power output and aerobic and anaerobic performance, are not usually impacted by mild to moderate lack of sleep. However, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) are almost always affected when a significant sleep debt is present: Athletes feel they are working harder when sleep deprived, even if performance metrics say otherwise. Some study authors have attributed this to a self-fulfilling prophecy, since tired athletes expect physical activity to be more strenuous and difficult due to their tiredness. The mental effects of sleep debt, meanwhile, are much more pronounced. Research has shown that reaction time, stress level, alertness, irritability, and overall energy level or vigor are all negatively affected by sleep deprivation. One study found that chronically sleepdeprived people were outperformed on a reaction time test by well-rested people
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who were above the legal alcohol intoxication limit for driving at the time. Sleep debt can also wreak havoc on another key process for athletes: motor learning, which is especially significant for field athletes. It’s well known that practicing a given skill leads to improved proficiency, and that the passage of time after practicing further enhances the gains—this is one of the concepts behind “muscle memory.” But a recent landmark study suggests it’s not the passage
described in this article and then telling them to hit the hay, I could stop here. But in reality, most sleep-deprived athletes got that way because they don’t know exactly what they’re doing wrong. The first priority to address is time devoted to sleep. The aforementioned goal of nine hours per night for teens and college students will seem unrealistic to many, but the closer they can come to that number, the better they’ll feel and the more they’ll enjoy the health, recovery, and performance benefits of sleep. Consistency in sleep time is valuable as well. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day takes maximum advantage of the body’s natural circadian rhythm, while having different bedtimes and wakeup times every day can throw
Several studies have shown that test subjects who suffer cognitive and motor impairment due to sleep debt are often unaware of their decreased ability ... of time itself that makes the difference, but rather time spent asleep that causes additional proficiency gains to occur. In the study, two groups were tested in a specific motor skill, and then retested in the same skill 12 hours later. Members of the first group were initially tested at 10 p.m. and went to sleep shortly afterward. Members of the second group were initially tested at 10 a.m. and did not sleep afterward. When the groups were re-tested, those who had slept showed a statistically significant improvement in performance, while those who had not slept showed no improvement. However, it’s interesting to note that after 24 hours, once members of the second group had gotten a good night’s sleep, their performance at the skill improved significantly as well. Perhaps most notable of all, several studies have shown that test subjects who suffer cognitive and motor impairment due to sleep debt are often unaware of their decreased ability. This might help explain why athletes don’t take sleep habits as seriously as they should. They don’t realize how much a lack of sleep may be hampering their alertness, mental processing speed, reaction time, and other skills essential to athletic success. Better Nights Ahead If you could improve athletes’ sleep habits simply by summarizing the research 32
Coaching Management
possible, use a sleeping mask to cover your eyes. n Try wearing soft foam earplugs to eliminate nighttime noises that might interrupt your sleep. Or, if you’re used to some ambient noise at night, use a fan, humidifier, or other appliance that creates “white noise” to make you more comfortable. n Turn off the ringer on your phone(s) before going to bed. Remember that interrupted sleep can deprive you of the deeper stages of the sleep cycle, which have so many crucial benefits. n Engage in progressive relaxation activities as you prepare to go to sleep. Being very physically active late at night, exposure to bright light right before bed (for instance from a computer monitor or television), or eating less than two hours before bedtime can delay “sleep latency,” making it harder to fall asleep and robbing you of total sleep time. n Set the room at a cool, comfortable temperature for sleep. Some people prefer warmer sleep environments than others, so when your team travels, try to find a roommate with a similar temperature preference.
This might help explain why athletes don’t take sleep habits as seriously as they should. They don’t realize how much a lack of sleep may be hampering skills essential to their athletic success. off the internal clock. Once a routine is established, athletes will find they are able to fall asleep more quickly and sleep more soundly through the night. Remember how the suprachiasmatic nucleus is located near the optic nerves? Even small amounts of light can affect levels of melatonin, the major hormone that regulates sleepiness, and that’s just one example of why creating the right sleeping environment must be a priority as well. This can be difficult for studentathletes, particularly college students living in dorms, so here are some helpful tips to pass along: n Eliminate as many light sources as possible when going to bed. This means turning off computer monitors, using dark curtains over dorm windows, and even rolling up a towel and putting it at the base of the door to block light from the hallway. If these steps are not
Much To Gain Serious athletes will do whatever they can to get better at their sport. It’s your job to help them realize that devoting more time to sleep isn’t being lazy or slacking off—it’s enlightened self-interest. Luckily, the research suggests that a moderate sleep debt can be cured with just a few consecutive nights of prolonged sleep. And once athletes develop better sleep habits, the performance advantages should show themselves fairly quickly. Well-rested athletes may soon find they’re recovering faster after workouts, performing sport skills with greater accuracy and proficiency, enjoying improved cognitive and motor function, and feeling better all day long. n A version of this article was previously published in Training & Conditioning, a sister publication to Coaching Management, and other sport-specific editions of Coaching Management. For more articles from T&C go to: www.Training-Conditioning.com. CoachesNetwork.com
Take Care of Your Home In Any Weather The Donkey is a portable, elevated multipurpose center. It’s a scorer’s table, observation center, video station, broadcast booth, coach’s station, penalty bench (optional), and optional on-field storage unit. No matter the sport, everyone benefits from what the Donkey has to offer. It’s easy to move, features lockable wheels, and offers protection from the elements. Constructed of durable aluminum, it stands nearly 11 feet high and comfortably seats six people. Aluminum Athletic Equipment (AAE) 800-523-5471 • www.aaesports.com Circle No. 500
A Great Motivator Athletic record boards are effective tools for motivating your athletes in track, football, volleyball, baseball, basketball, swimming, soccer, power lifting, wrestling, golf, tennis, and softball. Visit Austin Plastics’ Web site to view examples of record boards for all these sports. The boards are available with engraved record nameplates, or you can print your own using perforated card stock and a printing program supplied by the company. The boards are very durable and lightweight for easy installation. Custom boards are also available. Austin Plastics & Supply • 800-290-1025 www.athleticrecordboards.com Circle No. 501
Clear Hurdles Blazer’s premium line of hurdles includes some of the strongest, longest-lasting hurdles on the market today. The 1138 Collegiate Hurdle is a welded L-hurdle that features an interlocking, stackable, weightadjustable base. The 1140 Open Base hurdle works great for plyometric drills. All Blazer hurdles meet high school pullover specifications at all five heights, and also meet federation rules. The Form Finder selftraining hurdle helps athletes develop the correct body position for hurdling. Blazer Manufacturing Co. • 800-322-2731 www.blazerathletic.com Circle No. 502
Go Green, Take the LEED Tartan is the only track surfacing company Certified Cradle to Cradle by the MBDC. The company’s APS track surface is a “green” product that qualifies Tartan customers for LEED Innovation Credits. With singlesource accountability and peace-of-mind service, you get the finest full-pour polyurethane surface for competition and training. CoachesNetwork.com
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Tartan invented and patented this surface. It is manufactured in the company’s own plant in Pittsburg, Kan., and installed only with Tartan-APS crews. Tartan Track Surfaces 951-273-7984 • www.tartan-aps.com Circle No. 503
Longevity and Performance The IAAF-certified Polytan M track system is suitable for use in indoor facilities and outdoor areas. It is ideal for highperformance venues, ambitious school or club facilities, and multi-function facilities. Polytan M is a three-layer sandwich system laid in-situ onto a prepared asphalt base. It is designed for longevity with minimal maintenance and has excellent performance characteristics, even under extremes of temperature and climate. Polytan M is available in red, green, and special colors. Polytan-USA 877-POLYTAN • www.polytan-usa.com Circle No. 504
A Wise Choice “After extensive research on the many surfaces available, I came to the conclusion that Mondo was the best surface for our men’s track and field program. Most of our time is spent training on the track. I felt we needed a surface that would be ideal for constant training and that would hold up over time despite frequent use from athletes, students, and local youth clubs. The Mondo surface has been better than I thought possible.” —Michael D. Holloway, Head Men’s Track and Field Coach, University of Florida. Mondo 800-361-3747 • www.mondousa.com Circle No. 505
Don’t Lose Your Equipment AAE manufactures and sells numerous styles of BallStopper systems—high ones, low ones, offset posts, straight posts, small netting, large netting— but each serves the same function: to prevent balls from escaping the field of play. They’re perfect for fields that are surrounded by parking lots, residential areas, or steep embankments. BallStopper systems are especially useful for adjoining fields, because they prevent ball interference when multiple practices or games are being held in close proximity to one another. Aluminum Athletic Equipment (AAE) • 800-523-5471 www.aaesports.com Circle No. 506
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Take Care of Your Home
Show Off Your Times
Prepare to Perform
Raceclock timing clocks are available with four-, six-, or nine-inch digits featuring superbright LEDs or traditional “flip” digits. The single- and double-sided models are accurate to 1/100th of a second. Internal batteries provide more than 10 hours of operation with selectable timing modes set by a keypad. Accessories include a tripod stand, carrying case, remote control, and remote display operation compatible with FinishLynx. Raceclock by Electro-Numerics, Inc. 800-854-8530 • www.raceclock.com Circle No. 507
Blazer manufactures three-, four- and five-digit performance indicators and lap counters with a stand and bell. They feature aluminum upper construction with a swiveling top. The all-steel base provides added stability with mounted wheels that make transporting easy. The Collegiate PV standard offers quality aluminum uprights and a steel base for stability. Blazer also offers a full line of track equipment, including Steelex spikes, shots for the shot put, and much more. Blazer Manufacturing Co. 800-322-2731 • www.blazerathletic.com Circle No. 511
Special Offer on Seating
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GameTime Athletics is your premier resource for team track and field equipment. From hurdles and discus cages to starting blocks and landing systems, to track bleachers and benches, the company has your team covered. Find hundreds of track and field items on GameTime’s Web site, or call toll-free for a free estimate. Mention this ad and get 10 percent off bleachers and benches. GameTime Athletics • 877-891-2476 www.gtathletics.net Circle No. 508
Used by the Best
Record-Breaking Surface “When it came to making a decision about which surface to have installed in Drake Stadium, we considered many things. Performance, consistency, customer service, and company history were a few of the factors that we evaluated. Mondo was clearly the right choice for the home of the Drake Relays, as many records have fallen since installation.” —Mark Kostek, Drake University Associate Athletic Director. Mondo • 800-361-3747 www.mondousa.com Circle No. 509
Athletic record boards are effective tools for motivating your athletes to do their best. Visit Austin Plastics’ Web site to view examples of football-related boards, such as off-season strength and conditioning record boards, player-of-the-week boards, goal boards, and football record boards. Engraved record nameplates are available, or you can print your own using perforated card stock supplied by the company. Custom boards are also available. Austin Plastics & Supply • 800-290-1025 www.athleticrecordboards.com Circle No. 513
High Stability
Bank On It
On Track high jump and pole vault standards feature lightweight anodized aluminum uprights equipped with polymer measurement scales that resist peeling and tearing. Unique on-off riser clamps make height adjustment certain and secure at all heights—no more slipping because of loose screw-downs. The steel riser tubes and offsets are electroplated with zinc for durability. The pole vault standard slides along heavy steel rail units for unsurpassed stability. On Track • 800-697-2999 www.ontrackandfield.com Circle No. 510
Tartan indoor portable modular tracks are manufactured with new Pure Tartan polyurethane sheets and designed and engineered by Tartan-APS. “The Fresno State athletic department is extremely pleased with all phases of your work and service, and would recommend you to anyone who calls,” says Bob Fraley, Head Track Coach at Fresno State. “It reminded me of the old days when companies built their reputations on customer service.” Tartan Track Surfaces • 951-273-7984 www.tartan-aps.com Circle No. 514
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The IAAF-approved Polytan WS track system is made with resilient synthetic material that meets the toughest requirements for durability and performance. It is ideal for schools, recreational activities, and rigorous track and field competition. The Polytan WS system is both water-permeable and spike-resistant. The spray coat finish is available in a variety of colors. Polytan-USA 877-POLYTAN • www.polytan-usa.com Circle No. 512
Recognizing Excellence
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Everything You Need Exactly What You Want Yes, its true, you can make whatever design you want on VS Athletics sublimated uniforms, available in poly/mesh or poly/spandex fabrics. Show off your school, your mascot, your pride, your tradition. Create your identity. Get the whole set, top and bottom, or match a top with the company’s solid shorts. Warmups are also available. Call VS Athletics or go online for other ideas. VS Athletics • 800-676-7463 www.vsathletics.com Circle No. 515
Shelter from the Storm M-F Athletic’s professional, heavy-duty tents are not sold in stores and are featured in M-F’s Everything Track & Field catalog. Shown is a deluxe E-Z Up shelter that will protect your team from the weather and withstand the rigors of many tough track and cross country seasons. Choose steel or aluminum framing fitted with a heavyduty fabric that’s available in many colors
and can be customized with your school logo (optional). Go online or call today for more information and to request a catalog. M-F Athletic Co. • 800-556-7464 www.mfathletic.com Circle No. 516
Flying Farther The Challenger discus by VS Athletics is one of the best values available in a high school/college discus. Very durable ABS plastic plates will take a beating and keep on flying. It features 75-percent rim weight and complies with IAAF rules. The Challenger is available in yellow, red, green, and blue. Visit VS Athletics online to see the company’s complete line of throwing equipment. VS Athletics • 800-676-7463 www.vsathletics.com Circle No. 517
CAPTURE THE GREAT MEMORIES FROM THIS SEASON
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Directories
Advertisers Directory
Circle Company No.
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101. . . AAE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 120. . . Accusplit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC 106. . . Austin Plastics & Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 117. . . Blazer Mfg.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 108. . . California University of Pennsylvania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 123. . . CoachesNetwork.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 115. . . GameTime Athletics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 102. . . HighSchoolSports.net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 119. . . Inflate & Go. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 105. . . Jump Stretch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 111. . . Lane Gainer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 110. . . Lebert Fitness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 121. . . M-F Athletic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC 112. . . Marathon Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 104. . . Mondo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 123. . . myTEAMBOOK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 107. . . New York Barbells of Elmira. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 113. . . On Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 114. . . Polytan-USA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 116. . . PowerCranks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 123. . . Prep Sportswear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 124. . . Pro-Tec Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 109. . . Raceclock by Electro-Numerics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 100. . . Tartan Track Surfaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC 118. . . TurfCordz/NZ Mfg.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 122. . . Ultimate Guide to Weight Training. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 103. . . VS Athletics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Products Directory
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506. . . AAE (BallStopper systems) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 500. . . AAE (The Donkey). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 520. . . Accusplit (AX725 Pro Memory Series) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 522. . . Accusplit (AX740BL Pro Memory Series). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 501. . . Austin Plastics & Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 513. . . Austin Plastics & Supply (football) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 502. . . Blazer Mfg. (hurdles). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 511. . . Blazer Mfg. (performance indicators/lap counters). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 542. . . California University of Pennsylvania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 508. . . GameTime Athletics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 541. . . HighSchoolSports.net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 531. . . Jump Stretch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 532. . . Lane Gainer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 538. . . Lebert Fitness (Equalizer). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 540. . . Lebert Fitness (Stretch Strap). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 516. . . M-F Athletic (tents). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 523. . . M-F Athletic (track & field equipment). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 533. . . M-F Athletic (training equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 521. . . Marathon Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 509. . . Mondo (Drake University). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 505. . . Mondo (University of Florida). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 537. . . New York Barbells of Elmira (2000 Family Center) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 539. . . New York Barbells of Elmira (Leg Curl and Extension) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 536. . . On Track (Gillett Weight Training Implements). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 510. . . On Track (high jump/pole vault standards). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 504. . . Polytan-USA (Polytan M) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 512. . . Polytan-USA (Polytan WS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 534. . . Power Systems (Power Chute). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 530. . . Power Systems (Power-Stride Ladder). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 535. . . PowerCranks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 507. . . Raceclock by Electro-Numerics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 543. . . Schedule Star. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 514. . . Tartan (indoor portable modular tracks) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 503. . . Tartan (LEED credits). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 517. . . VS Athletics (Challenger discus) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 515. . . VS Athletics (sublimated uniforms). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
33 33 37 37 33 34 33 34 39 34 39 38 38 39 39 35 37 38 37 34 33 38 38 39 34 33 34 38 38 38 34 39 34 33 35 35
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Everything You Need Timed Just Right AX725 Pro Memory Series stopwatches are professional timing devices with significantly increased functionality going beyond Accusplit’s tremendously successful Classic X (WOS) series. The AX725 has the exclusive AOS 4.5 operating system with a twin left-right button operation feature, designed to give coaches, athletes, and timers the most precise timing available. All AX Pro Series stopwatches are cased in Accusplit’s distinctive, ergonomically designed “X” Case. Accusplit • 800-935-1996 • www.accusplit.com Circle No. 520
TE AM EQUIPMENT
Need Quality Supplies?
M-F Athletic’s 72-page 2009 Everything Track & Field catalog includes best-value essentials for high school and college track and field programs for both genders. Included are vaulting poles and pits, javelins, discuses, shot puts, and the complete range of throwing implements. Also included are starting blocks, hurdles, cages, measuring equipment, and even spikes and starter pistols. Request your free copy by phone or online today. M-F Athletic • 800-556-7464 www.mfathletic.com Circle No. 523
They’ve Got Your Number Marathon Printing specializes in numbers for all kinds of athletic events. The company’s goal is to provide on-time delivery of the highest-quality custom and stock bibs available. Marathon prints all numbers inhouse, giving the company total control for easy customization of your bibs. If you need references, just contact Marathon. The company supplies numbers for some of the largest and most popular competitions in the world, and would be glad to talk with you about your event. Marathon Printing, Inc. • 800-255-4120 www.marathononline.com Circle No. 521
Lighting It Up AX740BL Pro Memory Series stopwatches are professional timing devices with significantly increased functionality going beyond Accusplit’s tremendously successful Classic X (WOS) series. The AX740BL comes with Super (continuously on) backlighting that stays on for 10 minutes with each push of the backlight button. The watch uses a rechargeable battery and comes with a recharging kit, including attachments for wall outlet, car, and USB charging. Accusplit • 800-935-1996 www.accusplit.com Circle No. 522 Circle No. 123 CoachesNetwork.com
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CONDITIONING PRODUCTS
To Reach New Heights
Strides of Power Improve speed by conditioning the muscles for optimum stride length and frequency with the Power-Stride Ladder. This 30-foot indoor/outdoor ladder features eight high-impact PVC slats that easily slide and lock into place for setting specific intervals. Coaches and athletic trainers can create unique patterns or use any of the three pre-marked, color-coded acceleration patterns to accommodate different levels of athletes. A stacking pin and carrying bag for storage are included. Power Systems • 800-321-6975 www.power-systems.com Circle No. 530
Flex on the Go The Jump Stretch Door Harness makes it easier than ever to train with FlexBands® when you travel. This sturdy harness conveniently attaches over any door that can be closed to hold it in place. Position it on the top or side of the door and attach your bands (sold separately) to perform back extensions, standing benches, leg curls, and a host of other exercises. It’s also great for home use. The Door Harness adjusts easily, and an instructional video is available. Jump Stretch, Inc. • 800-344-3539 www.jumpstretch.com Circle No. 531
Sweep the Competition Training Sweeps are a revolutionary new training tool used to provide instant technique feedback for drills in nearly any sport. Hurdle Sweeps and Target Sweeps provide tactile, audible, and visual feedback for hurdle training. Ground Sweeps provide a safe alternative for drills revolving around foot placement. Plyo-Box Sweeps feature a soft brush edge that provides varying heights and a soft edge for more traditional workouts. Lane Gainer Sports • 800-443-8946 www.trainingsweeps.com Circle No. 532
Everything Track & Field Looking for quality, affordable track and field training aids? See the special training aids section in the 2009 Everything Track & Field catalog. See kettlebells plus a wide range of training and medicine balls, speed training specialty items such as the Bullet Belt and Tandem Tow, power fitness chutes, drive sleds, acceleration ladders, and more. This catalog is free. Call or go
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Coaching Management
online to request your copy. M-F Athletic 800-556-7464 • www.mfathletic.com Circle No. 533
That Extra Burst Now available in black, red, and blue, the Power Chute offers resistance and overspeed training in the same run. It improves both stride length and frequency—two key elements of speed. Athletes love that “shot out of a cannon” feeling immediately after releasing the chute. The adjustable belt allows training in any direction, and built-in mesh panels keep the leads from tangling and stabilize the chute. The Power Chute is available in four resistance levels. Power Systems • 800-321-6975 www.power-systems.com Circle No. 534
Something Really Different It looks like an ordinary exercise bike, but PowerCranks takes both training and rehabilitation to a whole new level. The product features independent bicycle cranks, so one leg cannot help the other. This innovative tool allows the coach to train all the lower-extremity muscles at once to improve performance and technique, reduce injury risk, enhance rehab after injury or surgery, and more. It has been successfully used by Olympians, world champions, and players in the NFL, MLB, and at colleges in many different sports. PowerCranks, Inc. • 888-733-2572 www.powercranks.com Circle No. 535
Varying the Weight On Track knows that modern training theory calls for incremental weight variation under and over competition weight for strength, speed, and technique development. With this theory in mind, Gillett Over-/Under-Weight Training Implements were created in both a discus and a shot series. An adjustable shot model is also available. All dimensional measurements remain consistent with competition specs. These are the throwing trainers you’ve read about on coaching Web sites. On Track • 800-697-2999 www.ontrackandfield.com Circle No. 536
Buy More, Save More The 2000 Family Center set includes a power rack, dipping attachment, flat/ incline/decline bench, arm curl attach-
CoachesNetwork.com
To Reach New Heights ment, leg curl attachment, 300-pound Olympic weight set, Olympic dumbbell bars, and an Olympic EZ Curl bar. This starter set can be expanded with a lat/row attachment and a cable crossover attachment. It’s a cost-effective way to purchase high-quality equipment for performing squats, bench presses, incline presses, military presses, deadlifts, pull-ups, chin-ups, dips, leg and arm curls, extensions, good mornings, and much more. New York Barbells of Elmira, Inc. • 800-446-1833 • www.newyorkbarbells.com Circle No. 537
Pull Your Own Weight The Lebert Equalizer total-body strengthener is a simple, cost-effective, portable, multi-purpose, and versatile piece of strength training equipment that works the arms, chest, back, and core muscles like no other item can, using your own body weight as resistance. It comes complete with a free beginner/intermediate DVD and workout poster. It’s available online or through Power Systems and Perform Better. You can see it in action on YouTube by searching for Lebert Equalizer. Lebert Fitness, Inc. • 905785-0626 • www.lebertequalizer.com Circle No. 538
CONDITIONING PRODUCTS
Two Machines in One The Leg Curl and Extension features a contoured rear seat to promote proper body alignment and an extra-wide front seat. It’s made with heavy-duty 2” x 4” construction and designed for Olympic and standard plates. Hold-down rollers, an adjustable and removable T-bar, and easy pull-pin adjustment let you switch from leg extensions to leg curls quickly and conveniently. There’s also a rotary rangeof-motion adjustment to enable various starting positions. New York Barbells of Elmira, Inc. • 800-446-1833 www.newyorkbarbells.com Circle No. 539
Stretch and Hold The Lebert Stretch Strap is a simple yet innovative tool that will assist you in comfortably reaching positions that may not have been possible before, and allow you to hold those stretches longer. The padded handle offers a comfortable grip while reducing wrist tension. The strap itself uses a double-loop system (much like a figure-8) that easily wraps around the hands and feet (or running shoes) for a secure and confident hold. Lebert Fitness, Inc. 905-785-0626 • www.lebertequalizer.com Circle No. 540
Great Ideas, Great Value Find What You Need, Fast HighSchoolSports.net has free tools for coaches to showcase their teams all in one location. Coaches can save time and get the tools they need to stay ahead of the game. Add, postpone, or cancel events and practices, enter scores and stats, access your roster, and get cumulative player and team stats, all on HighSchoolSports.net. Go online and start saving time today. HighSchoolSports.net • 800-258-8550 www.highschoolsports.net Circle No. 541
Never Stop Learning California University of Pennsylvania has helped build the character and careers of its students for more than 150 years. Cal U’s dedication to providing high-quality, in-demand programs to its students continues through the University’s Global Online 100-percent online programs of study. Through an asynchronous format,
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MORE PRODUCTS
Global Online allows students the opportunity to complete coursework anytime, anywhere. All that’s required is a computer with Internet access. Go online for more information. California University of Pennsylvania • 866-595-6348 www.cup.edu/go Circle No. 542
A Key Assist Schedule Star’s patented Game Wizard™ saves you time and sets defaults for the things athletic directors and coaches are always scheduling for games, such as facilities, transportation, and departure and return times. When you schedule your varsity team for any sport, Game Wizard automatically schedules the sub-levels of that sport. Schedule Star is all about keeping you ahead of the game. Go online to get started today. Schedule Star 800-258-8550 • www.schedulestar.com Circle No. 543
Coaching Management
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Bell lap
Find more coaching resources at the new Coaches Network! You can find more information related to coaching on CoachesNetwork.com, which has been completely revamped to better help coaches. We now offer expanded editorial resources, including articles addressing a wide variety of issues facing coaches today.
Articles on the site include: Strength & Conditioning
Gain Without Pain Why over-training can be as bad as under-training.
Coaching Life
Meet the Parents A coach explains how he establishes the roles parents play.
Nutrition
Food for Thought Make sure your players know what to eat—and when.
Leadership
Leader of the Pack Give your captains the tools they need to succeed.
Sports Medicine
Anyone Can Save a Life A first-person account of a life-saving response.
Plus archived articles from past editions of Coaching Management, including: Finding Funds for New Facilities Getting More Athletes Involved in Track and Field Helping Athletes Manage Performance Plateaus In addition to educational resources, Coaches Network also features social networking tools that allow you to connect with other coaches across the country. Build your own network and share your thoughts on our message boards and blogs. Plus, Coaches Network provides you the opportunity to create private team pages where you can share information with the parents of your players.
X
X X
Sign up for your free account today at: Where coaches connect and parents engage.
SAVE MONEY
THIS YEAR WITH ACCUSPLIT TECHNOLOGY NE W !
Introducing the World’s Greenest Digital Stopwatch using a Rechargeable Battery that frees you from battery replacement.
ACCUSPLIT has been developing the newest technology in professional stopwatches for three decades, since we invented the Digital Stopwatch in 1972 and the Memory Stopwatch in 1978. The AX740SBL brings you a dedicated, professional split memory stopwatch with a slim rechargeable battery system! The AX740SBL is suitable for use in competition or practice, from international Track & Field to local youth athletics, in all lighting conditions with its LED, OnDemand Backlight. Steve Simmons Vice-President Sports Marketing Coach Simmons, recipient of the 2009 George Dales Award from the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association is one of the most experienced track and field coaches in American history with leadership positions on 21 USA National Teams. See Coach Simmons Special Offer below. ACTUAL SIZE
SPECIAL OFFER
Includes 3-way Charger Kit
Coach Simmons Staff Special: AX740SBLKITC for $74.95 contains: 2 AX740SBL Stopwatches with 1 3-way recharger kit
To see all the product and offer details go to www.AX740 SBL KIT C.com.
Or call your favorite ACCUSPLIT stopwatch supplier and ask for the AX740SBLKITC details. Phone: 925-290-1900 Fax: 925-290-1930 North America: 800-935-1996
ACCUSPLIT, Inc., 3090 Independence Drive, Suite 150 Livermore, CA 94551
www.ACCUSPLIT.com
eMail: Sales@ACCUSPLIT.com
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Look to M-F Athletic For Best Quality, Value, Selection and Service!
Official Equipment Supplier of the
U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association
P.O. Box 8090 Cranston, RI 02920-0090 Toll-Free 800-556-7464 Fax: 800-682-6950 Visit us online: www.mfathletic.com Circle No. 121