Name: Charles Proctor (2004 interview with Proctor)
Career: Richland Northeast Boys XC & Track and Field head Coach
High school, grad. Year: Richland Northeast , 2004
College, grad. Year: N/A
Hobbies, etc. : Family, Track, Florida Gators football
Interesting fact: Im the same height as most 6th graders
What was the biggest adjustment you had to make to compete at the college level?
Time management was my biggest problem. The workouts were hard and exactly how I imagined them. Never got use to being the little fish in the big pond.
How would you rate your college running career and overall college experience?
My collegiate running career didn’t go that well. Between the numerous injuries and poor time management with my classes I didn’t last long at Coastal. With that being said my overall experience was amazing! I learned how to be accountable and how to be a leader from coach Vaught. Even though my running didn’t go as planned the lessons I learned and people I met made everything worth it.
Is there anything you can tell high school athletes to better prepare them for the college experience?
There is a reason you are called a Student before and athlete!! Learn how to balance the two and you’ll go far. The workout load will increase but, remember NO PAIN NO GAIN!!
Do you plan to attend South Carolina for any outdoor meets this coming season?
I will be at a track meet every Wednesday and Saturday.
Have you been back to see a meet recently?
The RNE boys track team just won the Diamond Hornet Invitational!
What memories from competing in high school stand out the most? What do you miss most about running in high school?
Winning our heat in the 4x400 at the 2004 Taco Bell Classic is by far my favorite high school track memory. Winning the 100m state title that year was nice as well. The constant clowning with Michael Rhue, Aubrey Lemon and Brandon Ellis before every race.
Are you still competing in the sport today?
Oh NO!!! Hung those spikes up a long time ago and picked up a stopwatch.
What piece of coaching or advice that someone gave you has been the biggest help?
Be firm but, show unconditional love.
What are you doing in the present and hope to do in the future?
I am coaching at Richland Northeast High School. I plan on winning a state title here and becoming one of the best teams in the country!!
How was the adjustment from post-college?
ROUGH!! lol. I wasn’t ready to become grown up Charles.
How is life for you as a coach?
Coaching is amazing!! I never thought I’d love anything more than competing but, watching these kids hit PR’s and growing into their own person is priceless. The first four years have been great I just hope the next 40 are even better!
What do you see needs to happen in the sports?
Coaches need to constantly educate themselves on the sport. Just because you’ve been doing this for while doesn’t mean you are doing it right. Athletes need to realize that it takes hard work to become a champion. The kids want all the glory that comes with being a champion but, don’t want to put their blood, sweat and tears into it.