Recognized as “Coach of the Year,” Track and Field coach Quentin Jones guided his team through a season marked by strong teamwork, determination and growth. For him, the award is more than a personal achievement; it’s a reflection of the entire program’s dedication.

“I was very honored to be nominated Coach of the Year,” Jones said. “It makes you feel good…that you are making a difference in someone else’s life.”

Many factors contributed to his success: his experienced team, his coaching staff and the program’s mindset. “The team we had was very experienced,” he said. “They were determined to finish the season on a high note. I have an awesome coaching staff that has done an amazing job preparing the athletes to compete at a high level.”

Throughout the year, Jones said the team’s progress became evident meet by meet. “We were slowly putting together the team throughout the year,” he explained. “At the winter track and field state meet, Coach Sam [Ovarvec] looked at me and said that we were going to win the outdoor meet. He felt that strong about our team.”

Keeping athletes motivated was also key. “We talk to our team a lot,” Jones said. “When they can see themselves completing goals or mastering skills, they become self-motivated.”

He noted that balancing tough coaching with care was crucial: “We do not expect athletes to be perfect every time, but to work towards perfection. These small goals add up to completing the big goals.”

Jones expressed deep gratitude to his support system, especially his wife. “She encourages me, she stands by me, and she even questions me in my coaching.” He continued, “She helps me be the coach I need to be for the program.” Not only do the students need a strong support system, but the coaches do as well.

As for what comes next, Jones remains grounded, “It stays the same, do the best we can, and coach the best we can. Help the athletes grow, learn about themselves, and care for others. The rest will fall into place.”