Meet Sam Seemes, CEO of the US Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association
Sam Seemes talks about elevating the coaching profession, facing challenges and positive change.
Sam Seemes, CEO of the US Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA), followed his passion into his current role. Hailing from a small Kentucky town, Sam started his career in coaching at Louisiana State University (LSU), where he worked for 13 years. The CEO at USTFCCCA since January 2005, Sam also had the privilege of managing the 1992 Olympic trials in New Orleans, a significant event for the sport. We caught up with him to find out more about the important work of the USTFCCCA and his aspirations for the future of track and field.
On his passion for track and field
My passion for track and field began early in life. I was a sporty kid who was inspired by track and field competitions. As a young boy, I attended the prestigious Mason Dixon games in Louisville, Kentucky, during the 1960s. This indoor track meet featured top athletes and the world's largest indoor track at the time. I also admired coaches as mentors and teachers, and that sparked my goal to contribute to the sport's growth and success.
About the USTFCCCA
The USTFCCCA serves as the professional association for track and field and cross country coaches, primarily at the collegiate level. It started in another guise back in 1938 and our mission includes representing, advocating for, and administering programs for coaches. We aim to elevate the coaching profession, ultimately benefiting the sports of track and field and cross country. Our responsibilities encompass daily management of service programs, advocating for coaches and the sports, and fostering unity and collaboration within these disciplines.
On the state of track and field in the US today
While track and field in the US boasts thriving athletic performance and widespread participation at the college, high school, and youth levels, it faces challenges within the college and high school settings. College athletics' fragmentation has diminished track and field's priority within many college administrations, which impacts support at the high school level. Despite the sport's athletic success, its stability and collegiate support are at risk.
“The sport has made substantial strides in offering more opportunities and recognition to female athletes, emphasizing the importance of equal opportunities.”
On the current challenges facing track and field
Multiple factors contribute to the challenges facing track and field. How track meets are presented and their perceived value to the public have declined, even during major events like the Olympics. And this multitude of events can create fragmentation and hinder a unified viewing experience. The infrequency of the Olympics, occurring every four years, contributes to the perception that track and field is only significant during these times. Additionally, the sport has been slow to embrace change compared to other sports.
We need to gain consistency in how we do things, make sure people can view the sport in a consumable manner and see the huge value of track and field and cross country across different platforms.
On the greatest positive changes that he has witnessed during his career
The sport has made substantial strides in offering more opportunities and recognition to female athletes, emphasizing the importance of equal opportunities and truly celebrating their achievements. American athletes have also gained increased recognition on the world stage, earning many Olympic and World Championship medals.
On what excites him most about the sport going forward
My excitement for track and field and cross country lies in the untapped potential for growth. Both sports offer unique attributes and experiences that can resonate with a broader audience. Cross country is an underserved sport, with qualities that make it accessible and captivating, such as natural settings and team-oriented dynamics. To unlock this potential, the sports must adapt to changing times and engage the public effectively.
On the USTFCCA’s Coaches Hall of Fame, Athlete Hall of Fame and Bowerman awards
The USTFCCCA administers three notable programs: the Coaches Hall of Fame presented by Rekortan, Athlete Hall of Fame and Bowerman awards.
The Coaches Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding contributions of coaches to track and field and cross country, with over 200 coaches inducted since its establishment in 1995. Each year, we select a new class of inductees who have achieved remarkable success and left a significant impact on the sport. The induction ceremony has grown into a major event, attended by hundreds of people, and is now a highlight of our annual USTFCCCA convention.
The Collegiate Track & Field/Athlete Hall of Fame honours the rich history and achievements of those athletes who have shaped the sports. The next induction class of these individuals is scheduled for June 3, preceding the NCAA Division I Outdoor Championship final in Eugene, Oregon.
The Bowerman Awards celebrate the most outstanding male and female collegiate athletes for the academic year based on their performances in indoor and outdoor track and field. Sponsorships, from companies like Rekortan are vital to the success of these programs.
On the importance of partnership
Rekortan has consistently supported our association from the very start by backing a number of different initiatives, in addition to being a key part of our USTFCCCA Supporter Program. Having good partners is crucial to being able to move the sport forward.
The USTFCCCA Convention and Hall of Fame takes place from 11-14 December 2023.