The Gill Athletics Track and Field Connections Podcast

Cassandra draws on her 19 years as an NCAA D1 XC/TF Coach and her personal experience as a D1 athlete to share lessons learned about cross country race strategy and the benefits of early preparation. Today Cassandra is a recruiting mentor for JP Coaching Collective who helps athletes and families navigate the recruiting process. Connect with Cassandra on IG (@cassandra.goodson).

If you've got a topic to share with our youth audience, contact David Mitchell to learn more. He'd love to hear from you!

Most coaches don't start their careers thinking they'll become college track & field coaches.

In Episode 381 of the Gill Athletics Connections Podcast, Mike Cunningham sits down with University of Missouri Assistant Coach Jordon Andreassen to discuss her journey from a five-sport athlete at a small Iowa high school to coaching combined events and pole vault at one of the nation's premier SEC programs.

Jordon shares how an injury at Iowa State unexpectedly introduced her to coaching, the lessons she learned during five years at Graceland University, her growth at UAB, and the path that ultimately led...

An exceptional organization, the Business of Small College Athletics (BoSCA), holds an annual convention attended by some of the most passionate hard working adminstrators in the country.

Coming together to share their experiences and knowledge, the BoSCA Convention features some of the top administrators around speaking on important topics that could provide value to our current slate of track/field coaches whether you have an interest in becoming an administrator one day or not.

We hope these next few weeks of topics from ADs from Albany State, U of Indianapolis and more...

The price on the quote tells you what a pole vault pit costs today. It does not tell you what the school may spend throughout its life.

In this Gill1918 Project episode, Mike Cunningham explains how coaches and athletic directors can evaluate the total cost of owning a pole vault pit.

💵 Initial purchase and accessory costs

☀️ Weather protection and storage

🔧 Maintenance, repairs, and replacement parts

🛡️ Warranty coverage and customer support

📅 Expected lifespan and cost per year of service

The lowest-priced pit may provide the best value—or it may be...

Should your school purchase the smallest legal pole vault pit—or invest in a larger landing system?

In this Gill1918 Project episode, Mike Cunningham explains why meeting NFHS or NCAA minimum requirements is only one part of the decision.

🏫 When a minimum-compliant pit may be the right choice

📈 When program growth makes a larger pit worth considering

🏟️ How facility space and competition plans affect the decision

💰 Why coaches must consider the entire project budget

🔭 How to purchase for both today’s athletes and the program’s future

There is no single...

Sports Psychiatrist Dr. Alli Young helps parents coaches, and sports organizations navigate the mental side of sport. In this episode, Dr. Alli highlights three potential issues when coaching or parenting children with ADHD and provides clear action steps you can take to overcome those issues together. Follow Dr. Alli on IG (@sidelinepsych) for other helpful solutions.

If you've got a topic to share or if you have a request, contact David Mitchell. He'll be glad to hear from you!

Coach Maryn Lowry joins Mike Cunningham on the Gill Connections Podcast to share her coaching journey from Cincinnati, Ohio, to Northwestern University.

Maryn discusses her path from running with the Bond Hill Flyers to competing at Iowa State and the University of Montana, where an injury ultimately opened the door to coaching. Along the way, she shares the lessons learned from mentors like Andrea Grove-McDonough, Gary Wilson, and Northwestern Head Coach Jill Miller.

The conversation explores why great coaches embrace discomfort, how continual learning shapes coaching philosophies, and why relationships remain the foundation of successful...

An exceptional organization, the Business of Small College Athletics (BoSCA), holds an annual convention attended by some of the most passionate hard working adminstrators in the country.

Coming together to share their experiences and knowledge, the BoSCA Convention features some of the top administrators around speaking on important topics that could provide value to our current slate of track/field coaches whether you have an interest in becoming an administrator one day or not.

We hope these next few weeks of topics from ADs from Albany State, U of Indianapolis and more...

At first glance, most pole vault pits look remarkably similar.

Underneath the top pad, however, are dozens of engineering decisions that can affect safety, performance, maintenance, durability, and long-term value.

In this Gill1918 Project episode, Mike Cunningham explains what really makes one pole vault pit different from another, including:

🧱 How foam layers balance landing comfort and support

🌧️ Why vinyl construction and weather protection matter

↕️ How reversible, edge-to-edge top pads distribute wear

🔗 How hardware and fastening systems keep pit sections connected

📐 Why the geometry around the vault box is so ch...

How much does a pole vault pit warranty really protect—and what could still leave your program responsible for an expensive repair or replacement?

In this Gill1918 Project episode, Mike Cunningham explains why coaches should never compare landing-system warranties based on the number of years alone.

Mike breaks down:

🛡️ What pole vault pit warranties typically cover

🚫 The damage warranties commonly exclude

📉 How prorated warranties lose value over time

♾️ What “lifetime warranty” may actually mean

🚚 Why freight responsibility matters during a claim

📄 What documentation schools should retain

Jamie is a two-time US Olympian in the high jump and a former D1 coach. He's also an award winning actor, writer, and filmmaker. This is the 2026 updated version of Jamie's very popular "Hot Tips for HJ" episode. Coaches and athletes are invited to register for Jamie's upcoming Virtual High Jump Camp to be held 9/27/26. 

If you have a topic to share with our youth audience, contact David Mitchell. We'd love to have you join the fun!

Central Washington University Head Coach Jon Hill joins the Gill Athletics Connections Podcast to share a coaching journey shaped by perseverance, mentorship, and the people who refused to give up on him.

Jon takes us from his days as a multi-sport athlete in Portland, Oregon, through NAIA and Division I competition, and eventually into coaching stops at Portland State, Eastern Washington, Army West Point, Rice University, and now Central Washington.

Along the way, he reflects on the mentors who helped shape his career, including Kebba Tolbert (Gill podcast alum!), Chad Perry, Troy Engle, Mike Smith...

An exceptional organization, the Business of Small College Athletics (BoSCA), holds an annual convention attended by some of the most passionate hard working adminstrators in the country.

Coming together to share their experiences and knowledge, the BoSCA Convention features some of the top administrators around speaking on important topics that could provide value to our current slate of track/field coaches whether you have an interest in becoming an administrator one day or not.

We hope these next few weeks of topics from ADs from Albany State, U of Indianapolis and more...

From time to time (fifth time ever!) we have several of our long form podcasts that tell a complete story over several episodes.

For those so inclined, we'll put them all together for one big episode. This Labor Day weekend we present to you both part 1 and part 2 of our historic interview with legendary track/field coach Randy Huntington.

5 hours of some of the move value driven interview we've ever done. You have a long Labor Day weekend to consume.

How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.

...

A pole vault pit is a major investment, but its lifespan isn’t determined by age alone. Regular inspections, prompt repairs, weather protection, proper storage, and consistent maintenance can all help a landing system remain serviceable longer.

In this Gill1918 Project episode, Mike Cunningham explains the practical steps coaches can take to protect their pole vault pits. Topics include weather-cover use, pit garages, rotating landing sections, using both sides of reversible top pads, preventing rodent damage, avoiding improper storage, limiting unnecessary traffic, and identifying water intrusion.

The schools that get the longest life from their pi...

Most coaches purchase a pole vault pit only once or twice during their careers, making it one of the most important equipment decisions they will face.

In this Gill1918 Project episode, Mike Cunningham explains what coaches should evaluate before selecting a landing system. Topics include safety and compliance, construction and durability, warranty details, maintenance requirements, replacement parts, manufacturer support, facility needs, and long-term ownership costs.

You’ll also learn which questions to ask manufacturers, what warning signs to watch for during the buying process, and why speaking with coaches who have owned their pits for se...

Pro Track Runner Katie Follett, now a licensed counselor, talks with Pro Ultra Runner Hillary Allen about Hillary's comeback from a nearly fatal 150-foot fall during a SkyRace. Hillary openly shares the challenge of overcoming the massive injuries and the lessons learned on her path to developing extraordinary resilience, with mental skills coach Katie leading the conversation. They reveal actions and attitudes that can help coaches foster resilience in their athletes  . This interview is part of Katie's new Elevate Your Mindset course. Use code: GILLPODCAST for a $50 discount. Katie would love to hear your questions and comments via EMAIL or on Instagra...

What happens when a former 400-meter hurdler combines a love for track & field, a business mindset, and a passion for helping young athletes?

In this episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, Mike Cunningham sits down with Devin Noel, founder and CEO of Hurdlenomics, to discuss his journey from Memphis, Tennessee, to Arkansas State University and eventually to building one of the most recognizable hurdles-focused training groups in Texas.

Devin shares the story behind the Hurdlenomics name, how a simple request to help one athlete turned into a thriving coaching business, and why he believes the...

An exceptional organization, the Business of Small College Athletics (BoSCA), holds an annual convention attended by some of the most passionate hard working adminstrators in the country.

Coming together to share their experiences and knowledge, the BoSCA Convention features some of the top administrators around speaking on important topics that could provide value to our current slate of track/field coaches whether you have an interest in becoming an administrator one day or not.

We hope these next few weeks of topics from ADs from Albany State, U of Indianapolis and more...

How much does a new pole vault pit cost?

The answer depends on far more than the number at the bottom of a quote.

In this episode of the Gill1918 Project Podcast, Mike Cunningham explains the factors that influence pole vault pit pricing and why coaches should focus on total cost of ownership rather than purchase price alone.

You'll learn:

✅ What drives the cost of a new pole vault pit

✅ How pit size impacts pricing

✅ Why competition level matters

✅ The importance of warranty coverage

✅ How...

What size pole vault pit does your school actually need?

The answer depends on far more than the minimum dimensions listed in the rule book.

In this episode of the Gill1918 Project Podcast, Mike Cunningham explains how coaches can evaluate pit size based on athlete ability, facility usage, competition schedules, available space, future growth, and budget.

You'll learn:

✅ Why minimum legal dimensions aren't always the best choice

✅ Questions every coach should ask before purchasing a pit

✅ How facility usage impacts pit selection

✅ The role future growth s...

Pro Track Runner Katie Follett, now a licensed counselor, talks with Pro Ultra Runner Hillary Allen about Hillary's comeback from a nearly fatal 150-foot fall during a SkyRace. Hillary openly shares the challenge of overcoming the massive injuries and the lessons learned on her path to developing extraordinary resilience, with mental skills coach Katie leading the conversation. They reveal actions and attitudes that can help coaches foster resilience in their athletes. This interview is part of Katie's new Elevate Your Mindset course. Use code: GILLPODCAST for a $50 discount. Katie would love to hear your questions and comments via EMAIL or on Ins...

In this episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, Mike Cunningham sits down with Stephanie Bohannon, Director of Operations and Meet Manager for the University of Washington Track & Field and Cross Country programs.

From her beginnings as a student-athlete at UConn to her time with TrackTownUSA, Oregon Track & Field, and now Washington, Stephanie shares a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep elite collegiate programs and world-class events running smoothly.

The conversation dives into event management, athlete services, logistics, problem solving, the evolution of Washington Track & Field under Andy and Maurica Powell, and why...

An exceptional organization, the Business of Small College Athletics (BoSCA), holds an annual convention attended by some of the most passionate hard working adminstrators in the country.

Coming together to share their experiences and knowledge, the BoSCA Convention features some of the top administrators around speaking on important topics that could provide value to our current slate of track/field coaches whether you have an interest in becoming an administrator one day or not.

We hope these next few weeks of topics from ADs from Albany State, U of Indianapolis and more...

What are the most common pole vault pit mistakes coaches make?In this episode, Mike Cunningham shares the seven pit maintenance and safety mistakes he sees most often during facility visits across the country.You'll learn:✅ Why regular inspections matter✅ How small tears become expensive repairs✅ The importance of weather covers✅ Why vault box collars should never be overlooked✅ Common mistakes involving standards and base pads✅ How athlete traffic impacts pit lifespan✅ Why total cost of ownership matters✅ Simple ways to extend the life of your landing systemMany pole vault pit problems are preventable. The coaches who get the most life from t...

How often should you inspect your pole vault pit?

In this episode, Mike Cunningham walks coaches through a complete pole vault pit inspection checklist and explains why regular inspections are one of the easiest ways to improve athlete safety and extend the life of a landing system.

You'll learn:

✅ What to inspect before, during, and after the season

✅ How to evaluate top pads, foam, vinyl, and hardware

✅ Common warning signs coaches shouldn't ignore

✅ How water intrusion damages pits

✅ Why weather covers should be inspected too

✅ The...

David is a coach and T&F announcer who spent 23 of his 39 years in public education serving as a school counselor spanning grades K-12. Along the way, David learned communication techniques to make difficult conversations more fruitful and less painful. He shares these techniques here, including a powerful response to a common passive-aggressive statement.

He is also the coordinator of this Youth and Beginner Series Powered by Coach O. If you’d like to contribute an episode, he’d LOVE to hear from you! Email David to learn more.

Note: Thi...

What happens when a coach sees something in you before you see it in yourself?

For Kalamazoo Central Head Coach Tyler Germain, that story starts with two teachers who convinced a tall sophomore football and basketball player to give track and field a chance. A surprise entry into the 300-meter hurdles sparked a journey that would eventually lead to a Michigan state championship and one of the fastest-growing programs in the state.

In this episode, Tyler shares how coaches changed his life during a difficult time as a teenager, why he became an English teacher...

In this engaging conversation, Coach Dave Turnbull shareshis journey from a young athlete in Pendleton, Oregon, to becoming the head track coach at Summit High School. He discusses his dual life as a coach / teacher and a DJ, the importance of building a winning culture, and his coaching philosophy centered around character development. Coach Turnbull reflects on the challenges of coaching, the significance of recruiting the right athletes, and his vision for the future of track and field. He emphasizes the need for constant learning and adaptation in coaching and passionately explains why he believes track is the greatest...

When should a pole vault pit be replaced?

Most coaches immediately think about age. But age alone doesn't tell the whole story.

In this episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, Mike Cunningham breaks down the real factors that determine when a pole vault landing system should be repaired, replaced, or removed from service. From foam degradation and water intrusion to compliance concerns and liability risks, this episode provides practical guidance for coaches, athletic directors, and facility managers responsible for athlete safety.

You'll learn:

✅ Why pit age is often the wrong metric

How long does a pole vault pit actually last?

It's one of the most common questions coaches ask, but the answer isn't as simple as 10 years, 15 years, or 20 years.

In this episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, Mike Cunningham breaks down the factors that truly determine the lifespan of a pole vault pit and explains why age alone is often the wrong metric.

You'll learn:

✅ Why indoor pits often last longer than outdoor pits

✅ How sun, rain, snow, and temperature changes impact pit life

✅ The critical role weathe...

Sydnee started at a small high school in GA competing in the shot put and discus. She shares the steps on her path to becoming a 4-time Junior Olympic national hammer throw champion, 2-time HS All-American, and then a top-10 all-time performer in the hammer and weight throw for the University of Oregon. She also offers suggestions to current youth athletes, parents, and coaches on how to forge their own path. Sydnee is the founder and CE[http:]O of The Collaborative LLC and also works as a Social Media & Marketing Professional. 

Note: This episode w...

Mike Cunningham is joined by Josh Brooks, Athletic Director at the University of Georgia, for a deep, inside look at leadership in college athletics—and the growing role of track & field.

Josh shares his journey from javelin athlete to SEC Athletic Director, along with his perspective on why track has become such an important part of athletic department success—from both a competitive and developmental standpoint.

The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including:

How do NCAA pole vault pit requirements differ from NFHS standards?

In this episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, Mike Cunningham breaks down the current NCAA requirements for pole vault landing systems and explains what coaches, facility managers, and athletic directors need to know when planning new facilities or evaluating existing equipment.

Topics covered include:

✅ NCAA pole vault pit requirements and dimensions

✅ Key differences between NCAA and NFHS standards

✅ Why larger landing systems are common at the collegiate level

✅ Landing system performance and athlete safety

✅ Common mis...

Are you confident your pole vault pit meets current NFHS requirements?

In this episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, Mike Cunningham breaks down the NFHS rules governing pole vault landing systems and explains what coaches, athletic directors, and facility managers need to know to ensure athlete safety and compliance.

Topics covered include:

✅ Current NFHS pole vault pit dimensions

✅ Vault box collar requirements

✅ Hard-surface protection requirements

✅ What NFHS means by "decelerating the athlete's landing"

✅ Common compliance mistakes coaches make

✅ How to evaluate an older or inherited...

Gwen is an up and coming T&F announcer along with being a high school XC/TF coach in Bend, OR and at the Steens Mountain Running Camp. Gwen is a University of Oregon graduate who studied filmmaking and advertising. She offers original, thought-provoking perspective on the impact of technology and comparison on the development of high school distance runners and on what coaches can do about it. You can get to know Gwen and her work by following her on IG (Gwen The Announcer).

This week on the Gill Connections Podcast, Mike Cunningham sits down with Kenneth Cox, Director of the Birmingham CrossPlex, for a wide-ranging conversation about serving track & field from every angle: athlete, coach, administrator, and now facility leader.

Kenneth Cox shares how track began for him at age eight, how mentors shaped him, and why consistency and relationships became cornerstones of his leadership. From coaching stops that included Emory (Division III) and ultimately 16 years at Birmingham-Southern, he opens up about the realities of building a program, developing athletes, and learning the “head coach” role beyond X’s and O’s. <...

Coach Will, Coach Lonnie, and A. Lew from the awesome Beyond The Blocks Track & Field Podcast took some time to share their experience as coaches and parents of athletes in three key areas of the college recruiting process. Their advice is real, practical, and able to be implemented right away. Athletes, coaches and parents will all benefit from these quick tips! You can enjoy their insightful and entertaining in-depth T&F interviews on YouTube and Instagram. 

Got a topic you'd love to share with our Youth T&F audience? Contact David Mitchell to learn how.

Some conversations go long.

This one goes deep.

In this episode, Rita Gary, head coach at Furman University, delivers a masterclass on leadership, accountability, and what it actually takes to build something meaningful in today’s NCAA landscape.

From her early influences as a young athlete to becoming a Division I head coach at just 24 years old, Rita shares how her leadership philosophy was shaped—and how it continues to evolve.

Despite a shorter conversation than usual, this episode is packed with insight for coaches who care about:

Lyle Smith gives us an insider's look at his new book "Blood, Sweat & Spikes: Running the Wetmore Way" on today's Gill1918 Project episode.

Check out his book at the Amazon link above; here's the description for this exciting new book for our exciting sport!

At the height of the first American Running Boom, a small town in New Jersey emerged as a magical place in the sport. Tiny Bernardsville, in the Somerset Hills of New Jersey produced dozens of local, state, age-group, and national champions and claimed a place in the pantheon of American distance...