KEEPING TRACK

The 2009 State Cross-Country Coaches’ Clinic featured two of the greatest coaches in the history of the sport: Joe Vigil and Joe Newton. Once again, Clinic Director Carson Cheek organized the event that also featured Dave Kirk, the outstanding coach from Chagrin Falls High School.

Vigil won 19 national championships at Adams State in Alamosa, Colorado, and has been on two Olympic Games staffs; he now coaches Team USA-California. Newton’s teams at York High School in Elmhurst, Illinois, have won 26 state titles and 20 national crowns. He was also the first high school coach to be a member of an Olympic staff, when he assisted at the 1988 games in Seoul. These accomplishments are only a small fraction of the many that these men have achieved in their long careers.

Coach Vigil spoke in scientific but easily understood language. He has integrated the principles of many of the best coaches and exercise physiologists in the world with his own vast knowledge, research, and experience to from the soundest program that exists today. His book, Road to the Top, should be a part of anyone’s library who wants to improve their own running or coaches others to “higher” levels of performance.

The word “legend” is an understatement when describing Coach Joe Newton. His ability to recruit young men from the hallways of York High School and turn them into champions over the last 50 years is unsurpassed in the history of the sport and very possibly will never be matched. His two books, Coaching Cross-Country Successfully and The Long Green Line, describe how this great coach has achieved such phenomenal success with the countless young men that he has worked with. The recently-released DVD with the same title as the latter-mentioned book, is priceless and is also a must-purchase.

As this writer intently listened to these coaches’ presentations and later dinner conversations, it became very evident the ingredients they share, that have led to their years of success. A belief in hard work and discipline, combined with an amazing attention to detail, an unbelievable passion for the sport, and the vast knowledge of how to apply practical science to their profession, leaves little doubt as to why they have reached the pinnacle of our profession. Something that goes beyond these traits was evident as we talked over our pasta dinner. Simply put, they are great human beings who are intent on helping others to be the best that they can be, as both runners and people.

Both these men may have found the Fountain of Youth. Vigil at 79 and Newton who is 80 years old, have the energy of men who are 50 years younger in terms of enthusiasm and “fire.” This author attended a coaches’ clinic in 1974 and listened to Coach Newton speak. Aside from a little slower step and a few gray hairs, he has the same highly-energized approach to his profession and life that he had those many years ago. What an inspiration it was to share time with him!

The legacy that they have left and the influence that these legends have had on countless other coaches and athletes is unmatched. The running community owes them a great deal of gratitude.

Country music legend George Jones once recorded a song with the title “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes?” When it comes to Joe Vigil and Joe Newton, the answer quite possible could be, “No one.”

Joe Newton will be speaking at the OATCCC Coaches’ Clinic on January 28 and 29 at the Easton Hilton in Columbus - http://www.runohio.com/read_new/oatcc-track-and-field-clinic Mark these dates on your calendar for a chance to listen and learn from one of the greatest coaches in American history.

Yours in track AND cross-country,

Rod O’Donnell

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