It seems like yesterday that this reporter returned from the NIKE Indoor Nationals. I really enjoyed the experience and loved interviewing the athletes, coaches, parents and fans. I must say that the speeches were great. I should also warn that these presentations must be curated. So here are my five deepest thoughts on high school racing.
- Rest, recovery and hydration are important. NIKE NIL coach Julie Benson, an Olympian herself, told us earlier this season how important rest, recovery and hydration are to a developing athlete. Watch his video. https://www.runblogrun.com/2026/01/the-journey-to-compete-nike-nil-coach-juli-benson-clip-2-discussing-the-best-way-to-recover-for-a-high-school-athlete-rest-and-hydration.html
- Recovery between seasons is very important. A break from the indoor racing season is recommended for most athletes. Multiple indoor championships are tempting but also dangerous. An athlete can only peak for so long and the possibility of injury is always there.
- Long-term development should be the plan. Many coaches, parents and athletes get it. However, concerns over scholarships, NIL contracts, and professional contracts can cause long-term damage to athletes if not properly managed. Please be aware of the pressure placed on young athletes.
- Great times in high school, managed correctly, can help build a long-term career. Talent must be managed. Small runs, maintenance of intensity, prescribed training, everything is important. NIKE NIL coach Julie Benson told us in her interview that there is a lot more pressure on these young athletes and that racing, training and rest have to be planned.
- Let kids be kids. Teenagers are supposed to have fun. The pressure of high-intensity track and field programs increases, leading to fatigue and a lack of interest in the sport. In most cases, a 24-year-old will be a better athlete than a 16-year-old, so give the young athlete time to mature and build physically, mentally, and spiritually.
- Coaches must be open to learning new approaches. Michael Johnson, Sania Richards-Ross, Jeremy Warner and the late Clyde Hart of Baylor U have told me for decades that coaches should be open to learning something every day.
