Antjuan L.

I've had the privilege of personally training a select group of young athletes, aged 10 to 12, who have achieved remarkable success by securing top placements in the prestigious 2022 and 2023 USATF National Track Championships across various disciplines, including the 100 meters, 200 meters, and long jump events.

Under the tutelage of the legendary Oregon State Head Track Coach, Leon Mackenzie Sr., of Benson High School, I not only received invaluable coaching but also emerged as a 3-time USATF National Contender in the very same events I now coach. Coach Mackenzie's mentorship allowed me to hone my skills to a competitive level and instilled in me a deep passion for track and field.

My qualifications extend further to being a certified SafeSport trainer, reflecting my unwavering commitment to the holistic development of athletes. My coaching philosophy emphasizes not only the enhancement of physical capabilities but also the crucial cultivation of mental resilience and fortitude. This integrated approach ensures that athletes not only excel in their athletic pursuits but also grow as individuals, well-prepared for success both on and off the track.

Under the tutelage of the legendary Oregon State Head Track Coach, Leon Mackenzie Sr., of Benson High School, I not only received invaluable coaching but also emerged as a 3-time USATF National Contender in the very same events I now coach. Coach Mackenzie's guidance and expertise played a pivotal role in shaping my athletic journey, allowing me to attain national recognition and excellence.

Furthermore, during my high school years, I achieved the remarkable distinction of earning a starting position in the prestigious East/West All-Star Bowl game representing the State of Oregon. My versatility as a two-sport athlete in both Track and Football enabled me to seize opportunities that extended beyond high school. This dual commitment and dedication paved the way for me to earn a full scholarship to the University of Idaho, where I had the privilege of not only competing in Track and Field but also playing football.

This multifaceted journey has equipped me with a profound understanding of the demands and challenges faced by student-athletes striving for success at both the collegiate and national levels. It is this wealth of experience and dedication that I bring to my coaching, ensuring that I provide the guidance, mentorship, and knowledge necessary to help young athletes achieve their highest potential.

First and foremost, I initiate the coaching journey by engaging the athlete in a structured dialogue. During this initial phase, I guide them through a series of thought-provoking questions meticulously designed to unearth their ultimate aspirations. It is crucial that they articulate their end goals, and I facilitate this by providing the questions, which they duly record.

Subsequently, I engage in a comprehensive review of their responses. However, the pivotal moment in this introspective process arrives with a single, vital query: Are they genuinely committed to investing the effort required to achieve their desired outcomes? This pivotal question serves as a litmus test for their willingness to embrace the inherent discomfort that accompanies rigorous training.

Once I have ascertained their level of commitment, I'll transition to the practical phase of their training journey. This involves a meticulous assessment of five fundamental components: Coordination, Endurance, Flexibility, Speed, and Strength. Each element receives dedicated attention, as they each play a distinctive role in an athlete's development.

To identify the primary area of focus, I employ specific drills tailored to evaluate each component. For instance, if an athlete exhibits remarkable strength but lacks coordination, it becomes evident that efforts should be concentrated on enhancing coordination skills. It is important to recognize that strength alone may not suffice in achieving optimal performance, as these components are interrelated.

This approach is multifaceted and dynamic. We'll channel our efforts towards strengthening the areas that demand attention, all while maintaining a limited focus on sustaining existing strengths. This dual approach ensures a well-rounded development strategy that allows athletes to synergize their strengths with the facets that require improvement.

Ultimately, my coaching methodology is a meticulous and holistic process aimed at nurturing athletes, enabling them to reach their full potential, and forging a seamless harmony between their aspirations and their ability to realize them.