Interview, David Emeott, Head Coach, East Kentwood HS, Michigan
MileSplit national will be periodically publishing standard written interviews with the head coaches of many of the top U.S. high school track and field teams. This interview is with David Emeott, head coach of East Kentwood High School, national power from Michigan.
Send nominations (team, head coach, email address) of other “Top U.S. T&F teams” to lknudson@milesplit.com.
School, location (city, state) – East Kentwood High School, Kentwood, Michigan
Team (boys, girls, both) – boys, girls’ pole vault
Head Coach – David Emeott
Assistant Coaches – Matthew Burton(Jumps), Jeff Mccune(Sprints), Norm Zylstra-John Makinen-Tyler Pettit (Throws), Stephanie Stephenson (Hurdles), Ray Antel-Valerie Thomasma (Distance)
Strongest Events – We are a very solid team across the board. Our sprints and relays have probably won the most All-Americans, but our team is 17 events strong.
Top (national level) athletes; name, grade, events/PR’s – It is still very early in our season but I think we will have a few strong individuals and relays teams
Boys:
Houston Glass; 100 - 10.94, Long Jump - 22'5"
Girls:
Katie Rancourt; Pole Vault - 12'7.5”
Top (national level) relay teams; events, PR’s –
4x100 - 43.20
4x200 - 1:28.43
4x400 - 3:28.34
Key(s) to the success of your team – Hard Work. Our team puts in countless hours in all events throughout the year. We have a group of athletes who love Track and Field and are willing to put in the time to get results.
Your favorite meet(s) – I really enjoyed Nike Track Nationals. This was a tremendous experience and I hope Nike considers bringing it back next year. New Balance is an awesome experience for all athletes. If you want to see the best athletes in the country you should not miss this meet.
Teams you most enjoy competing against – I really enjoy competing against well coached teams with no weaknesses. When every event is a battle is when your entire team has a chance to shine.
Team goals for the season – Our goal for this year is to get better and better every day in every way. I do not often put specific meet goals on the team but we certainly hope to be in contention for our 4th straight Michigan Championship.