Coaching is a process that takes time. It takes time to get to know a runner and it takes time to get to know what their strengths are and what areas we might need to improve. Often, the best way to identify these areas for development is in an race/ competition. I am very lucky to be able to coach a great group of Young people at Telford Athletics Club. We started our journey together this Summer. I have helped to coach a big group of young people at the club for a couple of years now, alongside the brilliant Sarah Benson. This summer it was time to take the lead with my own group and we now have upwards of 20 under 14 athletes, all with super talent and big dreams.
Watching them race and compete over the last few weeks has been amazing- I have been able to see the training block pay off, the smiles when they run a PB and more importantly, they are loving the training process. I have also been able to identify areas that we can work on, and that’s where as a coach you earn your stripes- spotting things that can inform the next block of training. We’ve had 6 PB’s so far in the group and our 600m squad times are coming down every week! The formula is working and it’s exciting to see.
If you are looking for a chat or conversation about training for 600’s, if you are a coach and want to spin some ideas with us about training- get in touch! We love to collaborate and work with others. Running is about friendship, working together and teamwork- athletes, coaches and parents.
Coach Phil