For my coach interview, I chose to call up my high school track coach (who is an EOU alum). He was one of the best coaches I have ever been able to work with and someone that I will always remember when I am creating my own coaching methods.

Q: What are the main challenges you face in coaching high school track and field?

Coach B: High school track presents many challenges as their are many different levels of athletes. Some kids are out to reach a high level, while others are simply wanting to hang out with their friends. Organizing this large number of athletes and keeping them focused on their tasks to help them reach their potential is the biggest challenge.

Q: What part of your job do you enjoy the most?

Coach B: The best part of my job is seeing young people do things they didn't think they were capable of. Track is a sport that has events of all kinds and it really allows each kid to find something they are good at. Even if they aren't competitive with some of the other schools athletes, they can always beat their own personal best marks and feel accomplished.

Q: What are your challenges with the budget in the current economy?

Coach B: The economy has been very challenging lately and we have had to make the best out of what we have. Sports at our school were nearly cut last year before we came up with a new fund raising plan to salvage them. We had to go to a new coaching plan that is almost entirely volunteer and our travel was greatly cut back. We are lucky to have found enough private support to keep this program alive, but we will face a few tough years while the budget is restructured.

Q: Where is your favorite place for a track meet?

Coach B: That choice is very easy. Living in Oregon, we have one of the nicest track facilities in the world at the Universiy of Oregon. The state championships are hosted at Hayward Field each year and its an incredible experience for the athletes and the coaches. The field has been top quality their for many years and the recent hosting of the olympic trials has brought even more improvements.

Q: Do you see yourself coaching at a higher level?

Coach B: I always thought that I would love to coach at the college level for a big school, but now I am not sure. High school coaching has been very rewarding and I have developed many close relationships that are priceless to me. If I did ever decide to move up to the next level, I would like it to be in an assistant coaching position at a smaller college where I could maintain the same personal level with my athletes.

Me: Thank you for your time and good luck with your season

Coach B: Same to you. Mount up!