When did you first become interested in
Track and Field?
Middle School/7th grade was when I first got involved
Did you ever compete in Track scholastically, and if so where?
High School 9th-12th grade at Livonia Franklin High School in Michigan
What are your favorite memories from competing in Track and did you win any honors?
Our 4x400 relay in HS won our conference and then the district championship, we went on to place at the state meet that year. As an athlete, it was rewarding because we had a goal set and worked hard to achieve it together. That lesson of working WITH others to achieve my goals stuck with me throughout the years.
When did you decide to be a Track and Field coach?
I knew in HS that I wanted to be a teacher and coach.
Tell me everywhere you have coached and for how long?
My first 8 years were at my alma matter, Livonia Franklin HS in Michigan. The first 4 years I was an assistant and my last 4 years I was the head track coach. I then moved to GA and spent one year as an assistant under hall of fame coach Roscoe Googe at Marietta HS and the last 9 as the head track coach at Marietta.
Who has been your most profound influence in shaping your mindset and program?
I've been very fortunate to have worked with some outstanding coaches in my career. I'd say without a doubt, Jack Coleman our Head XC Coach and our track programs Distance Coach has taught me so much throughout our years together. Also Jason Meade (former football coach/ current MHS administrator) has had a big influence on me as well.
Have you coached any other Sports besides Track?
I've been coaching HS football as an assistant for the last 16 years and I've also coached 8 years HS basketball as well.
If possible, what has been your best moment/memory as a Coach?
I truly have had a very rewarding time coaching throughout the years, I'm not sure I could point out one in particular moment or memory.
What are your favorite events to coach?
I have a passion for all of the sprints & relays but I truly love coaching the 400m dash and the 4x400 relay.
Do you have any specific Goals for your team this Outdoor season?
As a coach, I always visualize our kids winning a state championship each pre-season however my goal each year is to put them in a position where they can be at their very best and reach their full potential. That might sound like "coaches speak" but that's the only thing I can control as a coach.
How much has Track changed since the advent of GATFXC.com and now MileSplit GA?
The majority of us live on milesplit each day. It is such a great resource and tool for coaches, athletes and parents. It allows the track community to connect with each other, share news and promote our great sport.
What changes would you like to be made in the future for Georgia HS Track and Field?
I would really like to see GA add the 4x800 and 4x200 as well as get rid of its unique event entry limit and allow athletes to participate in any 4 events as most of the states in our nation allow.
If you could turn the clock back, would you do anything differently?
I only know how to coach one way and that's to dive in head first. I struggle with leaving the coaching portion of my life at school and not bringing it home with me. I have two beautiful daughters ages 7 and 4 and wife who is a single parent during the season. I'm still trying to figure out how to do it differently......