By Senior Correspondent Marty Ogden, Editing and Graphics by Ron Knapp

Podcasts have become more popular not only as entertainment but as a way for us to learn something new about our jobs and interests. The Gill Athletics Coaches Connection is definitely one podcast to listen to if you are a fan of track and field. Host Mike Cunningham, a former high school and college track coach and current National Business Development Manager for Gill Athletics interviews track and field coaches of all levels. He explores the unique journeys of coaches worldwide and listeners can engage with inspiring stories, uncover strategies that define success, and dive into the experiences that shape the track and field world. Each week Mike has conversations with a different coach and so far there are already over 250 episodes.

Each week Mike has conversations with a different coach and so far there are already over 300 episodes. 

On Monday, March 17th, Jeff Billing, head cross country and track coach at Hall High and one of the directors of the Northern Kingdom Running Camp was the guest. Take a listen as you learn about his journey into coaching, his family background and of course how he develops a team of over 150 boys on his cross country and track teams. Click on the following link to listen on YouTube or on your favorite podcast

For you fans from the Nutmeg State, Mike Cunningham has already interviewed several members who were at one time or another part of our community. Among them include: 

#291: John Kenworthy - Women’s cross country coach at Brown University 

#162: Beth Alford-Sullivan- Director of TF/ XC at the University of Connecticut 

#208: Logan Sharpe- SCSU All American  current coach at Ashland University

#167: Gregg Schmidt- Head Coach of the University of Bridgeport TF and XC Programs

#184: Connor Green- Former Southington, Current University of Hartford Head TF/ XC coach

#159: Dave Cusano - Colby College Head TF Coach, former athlete at Sheehan High

#11: Andrew Craycraft - Director of TF and XC at Millikin University and Weston state champion

Other guest speakers who offer valuable stories and advice:

#295: Tony Holler-Plainfield North (IL) High School “Feed the Cats”

#26: Harry Marra (p.2)-The Four Principles Necessary to Fully Develop the Art of Coaching (PKTC)

#138: Diljeet Taylor-Head Cross Country Coach of BYU

#134: Boo Schexnayder-Louisiana State University

#79: Rob Lasorsa-MF Athletics/National Throws Coaches Association

You can listen to the Gill Athletics Coaches Connection on your favorite podcast app or view them on YouTube. Check out all episodes at: https://www.gillporter.com/gill_store/gill-podcasts 

There are so many college coaches on the podcast, this could also be a valuable listen for many current high school athletes and their parents. It is a great way to learn about a potential college coach and their philosophy and how they began their lives in the sport. 

One series that was posted last year is a must listen for all high school coaches looking for ways to improve the sport in our state. Cunningham interviewed one representative from all 50 states to discuss what is unique about each one, how track and field is conducted and how each qualifies for their championship meets. Mike hosted MSR’s Marty Ogden to represent CT and that episode was posted on April 9, 2024

If you are looking to be motivated by some outstanding coaches on your long bus rides to meets. subscribe for a fresh, insightful episode every Monday morning, connecting you with the authentic stories behind the coaches. Get your weekly dose of inspiration and knowledge in track and field coaching!