First, I would like to welcome you all to 2009.

We are a key association in USA Track & Field (USATF) who is the National Governing Body for track and field, long-distance running and race walking in the United States. USATF encompasses the world's oldest organized sports, the most-watched events of Olympic broadcasts, the #1 high school and junior high school participatory sport and more than 30 million adult runners in the United States. Led by President Stephanie Hightower and CEO Doug Logan, USATF is a volunteer-driven, not-for-profit organization with a staff of professional program administrators at the National Office in Indianapolis.

The economy is hurting and many of us are enduring hardships.  However, we have much reason to be excited as we enter another fantastic year.  I have witnessed enthusiastic youth doing their best this spring in the development track series and the early season meets.  They provide each of us with the inspiration to deal with the temporary situations that we are constantly facing.  As we work to teach, mentor, develop and motivate them, they show us the essence of life and why we do what we do.  It is never about us as coaches, parents, officials, etc....It is about the young athletes as they strive for excellence.

USATF's largest youth program is the Junior Olympics, where nearly 70,000 youth athletes compete each year in the Track & Field and Cross Country championships. On the non-competitive side, USATF's "Win With Integrity" program showcases star athletes speaking with local schools about the importance of fitness, a healthy lifestyle, living with integrity--including a drug-free life--and setting goals.  I encourage each of you to review this program on the National website to learn more. 

There are a lot of new things in 2009 with our association and USA Track & Field (USATF).  With the summer track season about to kick into full gear, we are ready to help our athletes and you reach your full potential. We have experienced coaches, athletes, officials, and seasoned clubs to go along with all of the new ones who have recently come on board.  We welcome you as we strive for excellence as well.

We invite you to respond to this blog and check back often for more information.