We recently caught up with Coach Adrian C. for a Spotlight article. Coach Adrian coaches track and field and strength and conditioning with CoachUp. He ran track in high school and college and has coached many professional athletes including Olympians.
Tell us about yourself.
I’ve been participating in track and field since I was a toddler when I used to live in Trinidad and Tobago. I was always quicker than my peers when we played athletic games and would win races at regional championships. I also participated at the high school level in New York City where I earned many honors and a scholarship to college. When I returned to New York City from my school breaks, I would volunteer my time and help coach local track and field clubs. It snowballed from there, and I started coaching myself and other athletes. Fortunately I was able to formulate a good regiment, and my program produced two 2012 London Olympics Games participants, one of whom got two bronze medals in the 400m and 4x400m relays.
Why did you decide to become a private coach?
Everyone has a niche where they’re “in the zone”. Mine is sharing my knowledge of track and field and sports performance and helping individuals elevate their athletic potential at any sport.
What do you enjoy most about coaching?
I enjoying setting and reaching milestones, small or big.
What can a client expect from private lessons with you?
Clients can expect a friend helping them to better their sports performance.
What is your coaching style or philosophy?
My coaching philosophy style is identifying and accessing weaknesses and then strengthening those weaknesses.
What is your favorite moment in your athletic career?
My favorite moment in my athletic career was winning the 2001 New York State High School Indoor Track & Field Championships in the 300m. I recorded that race and made a music video out of it.
Do you have any success stories from coaching an athlete?
During my visits back from college breaks, there was a very talented kid I had as my training partner. Little did I know he was dominating the high school league in New York City. Years passed, and we lost touch with each other. Two years prior to the London 2012 Olympic Games, we reconnected, and I offered to help him get back in shape. With pretty much all odds against him, including immigration issues, he was able to participate in the games. He’s currently the senior captain of my elite sport performance program.
Did you participate in your sport in high school and college (if so, where)?
I participated in track and field at John Adams High in South Ozone Park, Queens and Kansas City Community College.
What other sports or activities do you enjoy playing or practicing?
As a fitness professional and sports performance coach, I’m open to learning any new sport to help expand my horizon on athletics.
What is your favorite sports related movie?
Friday Night Lights!
What’s your mantra or favorite saying (in the context of sport and/ or life)?
“Get it”. To get something means you have to exert some kind of work to achieve it. Whatever it is, it’s not going to be reachable if you don’t work for it.
Do you have any special talents or a surprising thing someone might not know about you?
I weigh more than I look?
Coach Adrian is booking track & field and strength & conditioning sessions now! Click here to check out his profile. 
