Private Coaching for High School Runners
Read the Intro first: Tips for High School Runners
I often get coaching inquiries for high school runners who aspire to run in college or university. These runners (and their parents) seek specialized personal coaching outside the school program to help them reach their goal of running at the next level and perhaps even earn an athletic scholarship.
However, I generally do not work with high-school students in an ongoing coaching relationship. Based on my experience as a student-athlete and later as a coach at the University of Michigan, I believe the best scenario for young athletes is to fully invest in their high school program. After all - becoming a great team player is a very important trait for college and university athletics.
Potential Issues with Private Coaches
Multiple coaches working separately
When a student-athlete works with a private/personal coach, it is generally in addition to the school coach. Multiple coaches can make training complicated and confusing for a high school runner.Superiority
For young runners, the additional attention of a personal can sometimes lead to a subconscious sense of superiority amongst their teammates who do not “need” a personal coach. This is obviously very detrimental to team unity and the attitude required to be a supportive teammate.Lack of Independence
Private coaching in high school may also lead to extra dependency on the coach which can make the transition to college/university (where no one works with personal coaches) more difficult.
The Star on the Team
Just because a student-athlete is on a higher level than his or her team does not necessarily mean a private coach is required to develop the runner.
If the high school coach is willing and able to accommodate the runner with more challenging workouts, every effort should be made by coach and student-athlete to remain integrated with the team:
Workouts may be different but everyone should be on the track or XC course at the same time while working out.
Warm ups and cool down jogs should be done together as a team.
Easy runs should be done as a team, as well as any additional cross training, team travel, and team activities.
Separating one individual from the team based on ability should be avoided.
The Exceptions (because there are always exceptions!)
Home-Schooling
A personal coach can be a great option for students who do not have a school team or coach to guide their training.Summer Training
Many high school programs offer some structure or at least a training plan for students who want to continue training through summer break. However, if a student has no guidance through the summer, working with a personal coach may be a suitable option. Ideally the school coach will be aware of and support the student-athlete working with an individual coach. The personal coach acts as an interim coach through the summer and only until the school team resumes practice.(Another great option for summer training is a cross-country or track camp offered by a local college or university.)
Coach Collaborations
When a high school runner’s ability far exceeds the high school team’s training program, a personal coach may be a suitable option. This scenario only works well with full collaboration between the high school coach and the personal coach. The talented young runner should remain integrated with the school team. He or she should not miss any practices, and should support their teammates. Additional training may be done with the personal coach outside of practice and/or on weekends.No School Team
It is rare that a school in the US has no team, but this was my personal situation as a high schooler in Winnipeg, Canada from 2000-2004. My high school participated in the provincial and city competitions but the team did not meet for regular practice. We came together for meets but trained outside school in various track clubs. A club is great because young athletes can still train with a team of runners. If not available, private coaching would certainly make sense.
Upcoming Topics
4 Ways to Supplement High School Training - when and where to seek guidance outside the High School system.
Habits & Skills - qualities that help student-athletes succeed in both HS and university and that all coaches admire in prospective student-athletes.
Connecting with Coaches - how to stand out to college and university coaches.
Choosing an Institution - what to consider during the recruiting process.
Role of the Parents - what helps and hurts your child’s chances from the perspective of a coach.
Freshman Year - Tips for success and adjustment during the first year of college/university.
Nicole Sifuentes is a full-time Running Coach for adults of all ages and abilities. She is a former professional runner and 2-time Olympian, and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Read more about her services, and schedule your free coaching consultation.