Bringing International Experience back to Stillwater

VYPE: How did you get involved in the USATF? Christensen: In 1998, I read about this new coaching education plan in the Track and Field News. I signed up for the Level 1 in Orlando that February and then proceeded through all the levels eventually becoming an instructor, then a Lead Instructor, and now Chairman of Endurance. It is, and should be, a life-long, career endeavor. The relationships you build with students and instructors at Level 2 and Level 3 are priceless. 

 VYPE: What are the biggest differences/challenges of coaching high school track/cross country versus coaching for the USATF? Christensen: Coaching is coaching and every athlete benefits from having a coach. My athletes at Stillwater see me everyday their whole 4-year career and our relationship cannot be explained to people who do not coach. With USATF, you are more of a "leader" and the athletes are older and get advice from many people. On the trips, the leader/coach makes sure all the administrative work is done, workout times are set up and the athletes get to the race prepared, relaxed and determined. I do those things for my Stillwater boys as well, but so much more. 


 VYPE: How did you feel when you were named the head coach of the USATF 
Senior Men's USA Cross Country Team? Christensen: Thrilled! I had hoped it would come because I had led the Junior team at the same meet in Switzerland in 2003. That assignment was my proving ground and I felt that I had done the job well. I was really happy it was in Scotland... English speakers and traditional so there was less of a chance to mess things up! 


 VYPE: What is the most rewarding thing about being a track/cross country coach? Christensen: The athlete meets the sport at the coach and that is my role. I do not want them to be my buddy or anything other then my athlete. My goal is for them to run fast and maybe have their dreams come true. Being a championship level athlete is not about what you are given, but what you are willing to give up. I try to convince the athletes of that every single day. It must be intrinsic and from the heart. 

 VYPE: Did you always want to be a track/cross country coach? Christensen: Yes. I had a great cross-country and track coach in high school and another in college. They indeed got me where I am today. It is about working hard, very hard, and they taught me that. 
 VYPE: How has your experience coaching for USATF affected how you coach at the 
high school level? Christensen: The athletes I work with are very dedicated and focused people. They have their ego in check and are athletes that have cracked the performance code at the world level. I hope to bring some of that attitude to my Stillwater boys. There are many "wannabees" out there but these guys have done it.