Stay ConnectedUnlock the world of track & field coaching with The Gill Connections Podcast! Host Mike Cunningham brings you inspiring stories, real conversations, and coaching insights from leaders at every level. Discover a new coach’s interview every Monday. Plus, don’t miss the Ted Talks of track/field podcasts with our NEW Gill1918 Project episodes Tuesday-Sunday — short, powerful lessons from top coaches to help you grow on and off the track.
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Today we take a look at how the state of Alaska qualifies athletes to their outdoor state track and field meet.
*Fun Fact: While the pole vault is not an official state meet event, they do have a strong tradition of an All Star meet held at Kodiak HS called the Bryan Young Invitational where three super teams are created from the different regions to compete against one another regardless of Division.
Today we take a look at how the state of Alabama qualifies athletes to their outdoor state track and field meet.
*Spoiler Alert: Alabama is one of the 22-ish states that score the javelin (rubber tipped)! And while not part of the official state meet, AL hosts a heptathlon and decathlon state meet after the official state meets!
Step into the world of collegiate track and field coaching with the latest episode of our podcast, featuring the insightful and dynamic head coach of Butler Community College's track and field team, Greg Franklin. This episode offers a deep dive into the challenges and triumphs of coaching at the junior college level, the development of student-athletes, and the intricate process of preparing them for the next steps in their academic and athletic careers. 🏃♂️📘
Greg shares his approach to nurturing athletes who may not have the perfect grades but possess the potential to excel both on the track and in the classroom. He emphasizes the importance of academic discipline, the rigorous enforcement of study hall attendance, and the proactive measures taken to ensure athletes' success beyond Butler. 📚💼
The conversation also explores the delicate balance of managing egos, guiding athletes to the right four-year programs, and the critical role of realistic self-assessment in the recruitment process. Greg candidly discusses the challenges of consulting with athletes about their future, ensuring they find a path that aligns with their abilities, aspirations, and academic needs, whether that's at a Division I powerhouse or a program where they can truly shine and contribute. 🎓🌟
Moreover, Greg reflects on his journey from assistant to head coach, sharing the lessons learned, the unexpected aspects of the role, and the strategies that have helped him succeed. From paperwork to budgeting, fundraising to team management, he offers valuable insights into the complexities of leading a collegiate track and field program. 📈🛠️
This episode is not just about track and field; it's about leadership, growth, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Join us as Coach Franklin provides a masterclass in coaching, mentorship, and the art of building champions, both on the track and in life. #TrackAndField #CoachingLife #AthleteDevelopment #Podcast 🎧🏆
Tune in to be inspired by the passion, dedication, and wisdom of one of the most respected coaches in junior college track and field.
Check out past podcast episodes (including Boo Schexnayder-LSU, Diljeet Taylor-BYU, Petros Kyprianou-Illinois and 200+ more) on YouTube and Apple podcasts. Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038).
This bonus episode features an episode of the Vance Johnson's live show called Talkin' Track w/Texas Track Dad. He features athletes and coaches from around the country live utilizing YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram. This episode he invited Gill's National Business Development Manager Mike Cunningham on the show to talk about the new Long Jump experiment, NCAA DI championships, and Noah v Christian.
PS: The two also put together mythical 4x100m relay teams featuring animals/insects/birds from around the world to see who'd be the fastest. To see who ChatGPT thought would win check out Mike's Twitter post.
Dive into the fascinating world of race walking with the latest episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, where we sit down with Michael Roth, a prominent figure from the Raleigh Walkers. This episode peels back the layers of an often misunderstood sport, shedding light on its techniques, history, and the passionate community behind it. 🚶♂️💨
From Michael's journey in the sport to the intricate rules that govern race walking, we explore the technicalities that differentiate it from running, the significance of proper technique, and the role of judges in ensuring fairness. 🏅👀 We delve into the evolution of race walking distances, discussing why the sport demands such endurance and the strategic surges that can make or break a race. 🌍🏃♂️
But it's not just about the athletes; it's about the sport's place in the broader athletics community. We tackle the challenges race walking faces, from inclusion in major competitions to the quest for recognition and respect. Michael shares his candid thoughts on the sport's future, the impact of social media advocacy, and the importance of providing opportunities for athletes at all levels. 📱🗣️
Whether you're a seasoned race walking enthusiast or new to the sport, this episode offers a comprehensive look into the dedication, strategy, and heart that define race walking. Join us as we stride through the complexities and joys of a sport that's more than just a race; it's a testament to human endurance and spirit. #RaceWalking #Athletics #EnduranceSport #Podcast 🎧🏆
Tune in to uncover the strides being made in race walking and why it might deserve a spot on the global athletics stage.
Check out past podcast episodes (including Boo Schexnayder-LSU, Diljeet Taylor-BYU, Petros Kyprianou-Illinois and 200+ more) on YouTube and Apple podcasts. Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038).
Dennis joined us on our LIVE broadcast of the Prefontaine Classic 2023, the Diamond League Finals. He provided an insiders look at a pro team working on producing medals at the Olympics and World Championships. We get a chance to talk about how he started the group, what it's like to go from an elite athlete himself to an elite athlete coach, as well as the specialness of coaching such a talented athlete as Sha'Carri Richardson.
🎙️The Multi-Sport Athlete Advantage: A Deep Dive with George Lutkenhaus 🏆🏈🏀⚽
🌟In this enlightening episode, we sit down with George Lutkenhaus, the dynamic Athletic Director of Northwest ISD in Texas, former collegiate track athlete, esteemed high school track coach, and the proud parent of three exceptionally athletic boys. George shares his unique insights into the world of high school and collegiate athletics, emphasizing the invaluable benefits of multi-sport participation and the intricacies of the college recruiting process. 🏃♂️📚✨
🔍 What You'll Discover:
The Power of Multi-Sport Athletes: George discusses the positive impact of encouraging athletes to engage in multiple sports, highlighting a school that celebrates this diversity with special banners. Discover why multi-sport athletes are not just celebrated but essential. 🌈🏅
Navigating the College Recruiting Maze: From the role of high school coaches in the recruiting process to the strategic approach to college selection, George offers a comprehensive guide for athletes and parents alike. Learn how to make informed decisions that align with athletic and academic aspirations. 🎓🔍
Personal Insights and Stories: George shares personal anecdotes from his career and family life, offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of nurturing athletic talent. Get inspired by his journey from a track athlete and coach to an influential athletic director and supportive parent. 👨👦👦🏆
Advice for Aspiring Athletic Directors: For those looking to transition from coaching to administration, George provides invaluable advice on preparing for this significant career shift. Gain insights into the skills and experiences that pave the way for success in athletic administration. 📈🛠️
The Future of Athletics in Education: Explore the evolving landscape of high school and collegiate sports, the impact of social media on recruiting, and the importance of aligning athletic pursuits with educational goals. 🌍💡
#Athletics #MultiSport #CollegeRecruiting #TrackAndField #Education #SportsPodcast #AthleticDirector #HighSchoolSports #CollegiateAthletics #ParentingAthletes
👉 Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe for more insightful conversations on sports, education, and success. Rate us and leave a review - we'd love to hear your thoughts! 🌟
🔗 Follow Us: Join our community for updates, exclusive content, and more behind-the-scenes looks into the world of athletics and education. 📱✨
Check out past podcast episodes (including Boo Schexnayder-LSU, Diljeet Taylor-BYU, Petros Kyprianou-Illinois and 200+ more) on YouTube and Apple podcasts. Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038).
"Chasing Excellence: Inside the Mind of a Championship Coach"
Episode Description:
In this riveting episode of The Gill Connections Podcast we dive deep into the journey of James Thomas, the esteemed head coach of the University of Oklahoma Track and Field team. From unexpected career shifts to the pursuit of championship glory, Coach Thomas shares his inspiring story, revealing the challenges and triumphs of leading a top-tier athletic program. 🏃♂️🏆
Key Highlights:
A Life-Changing Call: Discover how a series of calls from athletic directors set Coach Thomas on a path from Georgia to Oklahoma, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his coaching career. 📞
Family First: Learn about the personal considerations and family dynamics that influenced his decision-making process, showcasing the human side of collegiate athletics. 👨👩👧👦
Learning from the Best: Coach Thomas reflects on his time working with championship-level coaches, absorbing invaluable lessons on building a winning program. 📚💡
Vision for Victory: Hear about his unwavering goal to not just be a head coach, but to lead a championship-level team, emphasizing the importance of short-term and long-term planning. 🎯
Building a Legacy at Oklahoma: Get an inside look at his strategic approach to coaching at OU, his philosophy on athlete development, and his vision for the team's future. 🛠️🌟
The SEC Challenge: With Oklahoma's transition to the SEC, Coach Thomas shares his excitement and strategy for competing in what is arguably the toughest conference in collegiate track and field. 🏁
Featured Quote:
"I've always said I never wanted to be a head coach; I wanted to be a championship-level head coach. If I didn't feel like I was at a place where you could be a championship-level team, it probably wasn't for me." - James Thomas
#TrackAndField #CoachingJourney #ChampionshipMindset #OklahomaTrack #SEC #AthleteDevelopment #FamilyFirst #CoachingPhilosophy
Tune in to this episode to explore the dedication, strategy, and passion that drive Coach James Thomas towards achieving excellence in the competitive world of collegiate track and field.
Check out past podcast episodes (including Boo Schexnayder-LSU, Diljeet Taylor-BYU, Petros Kyprianou-Illinois and 200+ more) on YouTube and Apple podcasts. Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038).
🎙️ Welcome to another exciting episode of the Gill Athletics Track and Field Connections podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Greg Jaloszynski, the founder of 12th Rock Ministries (https://12throck.org/home), join us as we delve into the transformative power of sports and faith. 🏀🙏
🌟 Episode Highlights:
Host Mike Cunningham, National Business Development Manager for Gill Athletics, welcomes Greg Jaloszynski and explores the unique journey of 12th Rock Ministries.
Discover the mission of 12th Rock Ministries: "Changing the atmosphere of sport by providing uplifting experiences to honor Jesus Christ." 🌍✨
Greg shares his personal testimony and the story behind the name '12th Rock,' rooted in faith and commitment. 🪨📖
Learn about the impact of sports ministry, from basketball to archery, and how it reaches a diverse range of athletes, including those with special needs. 🏹🏀
Greg discusses the challenges and triumphs of running sports programs and the vision behind building an indoor sports complex. 🏗️🏟️
Hear touching stories of lives transformed through sports and faith, emphasizing the lasting impact on young athletes. 💖👫
Explore the future plans for 12th Rock Ministries, including expanding their reach and facilities to continue making a positive difference. 🚀🌱
🗣️ Quotes from Greg:
"Our goal is to make sure that future generations understand that God is faithful and that he shows up."
"It's about The Fan Experience, it's about The Spectator experience... we want people to come back because of the experience they have."
"We want to know that kids understand who Christ is and that they're going to impact their families and their communities someday."
🔗 Don't miss this inspiring episode! Tune in to learn more about how 12th Rock Ministries is using sports as a platform to spread love, faith, and positive change. 🎧💫
#12thRockMinistries #SportsAndFaith #Podcast #TrackAndField #CommunityImpact #InspiringStories
Check out past podcast episodes (including Boo Schexnayder-LSU, Diljeet Taylor-BYU, Petros Kyprianou-Illinois and 200+ more) on YouTube and Apple podcasts. Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038).
Building a Legacy: Coach Bill Cooper's Vision for Heidelberg University 🏅
In this inspiring episode, host Mike Cunningham, National Business Development Manager for Gill Athletics, sits down with Bill Cooper, the passionate head coach of Heidelberg University's track and field team. Returning to his alma mater, Coach Cooper shares his vision for the future, the excitement of building a program with a rich history, and the importance of focusing on culture, process, and the personal growth of his athletes. 🏃♂️🏃♀️
Key Highlights:
Back to the Roots: Discover how Coach Cooper's journey has come full circle as he returns to Heidelberg University, ready to leave a lasting impact on the program that shaped him. 🔄
A Vision for Growth: Learn about the exciting developments at Heidelberg, including a new Fieldhouse that promises to enhance training, recruitment, and community engagement. 🏗️
Culture Over Results: Coach Cooper emphasizes the importance of building a team culture focused on hard work, improvement, and being good teammates, rather than just winning. 🤝
The Power of Connection: Hear how reconnecting with the past and fostering new relationships within the Heidelberg community has been a rewarding experience for Coach Cooper. 👥
Looking Forward: With an eye on the future, Coach Cooper shares his enthusiasm for the growth of the team, the development of his coaching staff, and the potential of the new facilities to bring about a new era of success for Heidelberg track and field. 🔮
Featured Quote:
"It's not just about the pay... I truly think like it was the right time and it was the right place to be able to come back to my alma mater and build a program into something that everyone that's part of it is going to be proud of." - Bill Cooper
Hashtags: #HeidelbergUniversity #TrackAndFieldCoaching #AthleteDevelopment #TeamCulture #FutureOfAthletics #CoachingPhilosophy
Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into the heart and soul of coaching at Heidelberg University with Coach Bill Cooper, and get inspired by his commitment to nurturing athletes, fostering a positive team culture, and building a legacy that lasts. 🎧💼
Check out past episodes (including Boo Schexnayder-LSU, Diljeet Taylor-BYU, Petros Kyprianou-Illinois and 200+ more) on YouTube and Apple podcasts. Connect with host Mike Cunningham on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email (mcunningham@gillathletics.com) or by text (217-898-3038).
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