The Gill Athletics Track and Field Connections Podcast

Today we take a look at how the state of Florida qualifies athletes to their outdoor state track and field meet.

*Fun Fact: Florida is one of the few states that has moved the 300m hurdles to the 400m hurdles. Can you name the other states? Hit me up on Twitter @MikeCunningham with your guesses.

Today we take a look at how the state of Delaware qualifies athletes to their outdoor state track and field meet.

*Fun Fact: While there are qualifying standards for all individual events, any team with any time can enter into the relay events!

Today we take a look at how the state of Connecticut qualifies athletes to their outdoor state track and field meet.

*Spoiler Alert: while not part of the official state meet, CT hosts a steeplechase, heptathlon, decathlon and hammer state meet after the official state series! How cool is that?

In this gripping episode of the Gill Athletics Connections podcast, host Mike Cunningham (Twitter: @mikecunningham) sits down with the esteemed Hampton University head coach, Maurice Pierce, for an enlightening conversation that delves deep into the essence of track and field coaching. Through a narrative that intertwines the discipline, knowledge, and personal attention to athletes, both on and off the track, Pierce shares invaluable insights and stories from his journey.

Discover the balanced approach of tough love and nurturing that defines exceptional coaching in track and field. From the rigorous training sessions to the meticulous care for athletes' academic and personal development, this episode uncovers the holistic method that propels athletes towards excellence. Coach Pierce recounts his experiences with mentors who exemplified this blend of discipline and support, highlighting the profound impact they had on his life and career.

Listeners, whether you're a high school or collegiate level track and field coach, will find inspiration and practical advice in Pierce's stories. This episode is a testament to the power of dedicated coaching staffs, the importance of discipline in every facet of an athlete's life, and the life-changing influence of coaches who care about the person as much as the athlete.

Embark on a journey through the complexities of coaching, the strategies for developing top-notch athletes, and the personal growth that comes from facing challenges with resilience. Join us for an episode that celebrates the hard work, dedication, and heart that coaches and athletes pour into track and field. #TrackandField #CoachingExcellence #AthleteDevelopment #SportsLeadership 🏃‍♂️🏅📘

Tune in to this must-listen episode of the Gill Athletics Connections podcast and gain fresh perspectives on nurturing champions, both on the track and in life. 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 ([email protected]) or by text (217-898-3038).

Today we take a look at how the state of Colorado qualifies athletes to their outdoor state track and field meet.

*Fun Fact: Colorado runs a Sprint Medley Relay (100, 100, 200, 400) ONLY for the Girl's state meet competition!

Today we take a look at how the state of California qualifies athletes to their outdoor state track and field meet.

Fun Fact: JT is also the host of the On Track and Field Podcast! where he interviews coaches and athletes around the world! He does a great job and it's worth heading over and subscribing. HERE is the link for Apple Podcast.

*Fun Fact: Arkansas high school coaches host an 'unofficial' state meet for the heptathlon/decathlon after their Meet of Champions track meet. They substitute the triple jump for the Decathlon javelin and the discus for the heptathlon javelin.

Today we take a look at how the state of Arizona qualifies athletes to their outdoor state track and field meet.

*Fun Fact: Arizona awards state team titles to four Divisions which then combine down to one Open State Championship meet (one for boys and one for girls).

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!