Coach's Corner is an interview series that will focus on some of the best programs in the state. The purpose is to shed some light on the inner workings of their program, the coaching philosophy, their athletes, and also the extra intangibles that come with coaching.
Up next this week is coach Wesley Etienne of Archer
Program Identity
Every great program has a "calling card." When people see your singlets at a meet, what reputation do you want them to associate with your athletes?
When I arrived three years ago as Co--Head Coach, my mentality was--and still is--that the letter "A" is first in the alphabet. It represents excellence. As a program, we should always strive to be the best version of ourselves as student-athletes and as a school. When people see Archer on the track, I want them to think of pride, effort, and championship standards. Throw your A's in the air.
Looking back at the history of this program, what was the "turning point" that moved it from a standard high school team to what it is today?
In a relatively short amount of time, Archer has grown into a competitive program with legitimate state championship aspirations. Coach Kasson often reminds me that we were once consistently runners-up at the county, region, and state levels. The true turning point came in 2015 when Coach Ethan Kasson became Head Coach. His vision was to build a relevant and respected program in the state of Georgia--one that competes at a high level and hosts quality meets. That vision laid the foundation for where we are today.
How do you honor the traditions or past top athletes and champions of this school while still pushing the current roster to carve their own path?
We welcome former athletes whenever they are back home--especially encouraging them to attend practice and share wisdom with our current team. Those moments provide invaluable perspective and motivation. This past December, two of our seniors, Moses Adams (Columbus State) and Jacob Davis (Georgia College), signed to compete at the collegiate level. They were surrounded by alumni from the Class of 2020 to the present, proudly supporting them. We also celebrate athletes who earn Top 10 marks during the season, ensuring the legacy of excellence continues.
If you had to describe the "vibe" of a regular afternoon practice in only a few words, what would they be?
Hard-working. Joyful. Tiger Family.
Coaching Philosophy
You manage a wide range of athletes, from distance runners to field event athletes. How do you foster a sense of "one team" when everyone is doing such different work?
When I arrived, Coach Kasson emphasized growing as one team. I shared with him that I only know how to operate as a family. That approach has shaped our culture. The results speak for themselves--highlighted by winning the girls' county championship for the first time in school history and defeating Brookwood in 2024. Every Tiger, grades 9--12, matters.
What is the "non-negotiable" rule in your program that every athlete, regardless of talent level, must follow?
Attendance. Consistency is either the foundation of our success--or the cause of our downfall.
In the era of super-shoes and advanced data, how much of your coaching is "art" (intuition/feel) versus "science" (splits/physiology)?
Intuition and feel play a major role in our success--knowing when to adapt or pivot. That intuition is balanced with science, data, and sound training principles.
How do you handle the "mental side" of the sport, particularly for high-pressure meets like Sectionals or State?
Preparation and consistency are key. We emphasize trust in training and teach our athletes to rely on muscle memory so they can compete confidently when the stakes are highest.
The Athletes
Who is the "unsung hero" on this year's roster-the athlete who might not be winning every race but is the glue of the team?
● Reneya Jimenez (12th) -- A true leader (aka Mom of the distance ladies)
● Coraline Kutter (9th) -- Learning leadership through Reneya's views
● Dontae Samuels (12th) -- A constant source of team support
● Zarion Lowry (11th) -- We started Archer together, and watching his continued growth and hunger has been incredibly rewarding
Can you tell me about an athlete who came in with very little natural talent but worked their way into a scoring position?Reneya Jimenez and Drake Jackson--both through relentless effort and belief.
What does the "ideal" leader look like on your squad, and how do you empower your seniors to take ownership of the younger groups?
A leader supports others while holding teammates accountable. They show up every day--not only for themselves, but for the entire team.
How do you help your athletes navigate the recruiting process and the transition to the next level?
Beginning junior year, athletes are guided through creating an NCAA profile and maintaining strong academic performance. The athletes we send forward represent our program with character and excellence, and that reputation helps future Tigers get recruited.
What is the most unique or grueling workout you put your athletes through that has become a "right of passage" here?Hills. No shortcuts--just grit.
The Human Element
What is the most rewarding moment you've experienced as a coach that didn't involve a trophy or a gold medal?
Watching Lailah Green battle through injury and seeing her teammates uplift and believe in her through adversity. That moment defined what true teamwork looks like.
What was the hardest lesson you had to learn as a young coach that you now apply to your veterans?
Communication is everything--in every situation.
When these athletes graduate and look back 10 years from now, what do you hope they remember most about their time in your program?
That Archer Track & Field helped them become better humans--people with character, positive mindsets, and a strong sense of family. My hope is that 10 years down the road, they're still connected, still lifting each other up, and still proud to be an Alumni with pride!!.