How to Be an Olympic Track Coach

Competing in the Olympics is just the tip of the iceberg in a track career. You may go on and compete in a second or third Olympic Games, but eventually the practices and competition take their toll on your body. However, you can keep working in the field by becoming an Olympic-level track coach. You can still do what you love while helping others achieve their Olympic dreams.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Set a good example. Your students will look up to you, so it's very important that you present a positive role model for them at all times. Show up early for practice, get plenty of rest, eat healthy and avoid smoking or drinking. You're there to not only teach them how to win, but how to act like a winner.
2. Have a history. When Olympic hopefuls are looking for a coach, they'll choose someone that has a history in the Olympics. You need to understand the politics and the physical requirements to make it, which is why your past history is so important.
3. Network. Staying connected to others in the industry is very important when you're trying to be an Olympic track coach. Say that a coach is retiring and looking for someone to pick up his students, or maybe another coach can't take on any additional students and needs to make a referral. The more people you know, the better your chances are of achieving Olympic coach status.
4. Be patient. The road to being an Olympic track coach is often a long one, so it may take you years to get where you want to be. Put your heart and soul into your job, and the rest will fall into place.