Dorman coach Jeff Buys talks about why he became a coach, the sport and being a SCTCCCA Hall of Fame inductee.
Name: Jeff Buys
Years coaching: 17
Coached at Ridge View, now Dorman
What made you decide to become a coach?
I had a friend in high school who talked me into trying cross country to get in shape for another sport. When I joined the team, running became something that I really enjoyed and I stuck with it. It was the positive experiences that I had as an athlete running cross country and track at Spring Valley High School under the guidance of Coach John Jones that really drove my decision to go into coaching.
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Looking back at your time as a coach, what do you remember the most?
Without a doubt the things I remember the most are the relationships I've developed with my athletes, assistant coaches, and the other coaches in this state.
What does it mean to be a hall of fame inductee?
It is certainly a tremendous honor, and I am truly humbled to be considered alongside some of the all-time greats who have coached cross country and track and field in this state. I know our teams wouldn't have ever achieved what we did without the help of many who are in the Hall of Fame. So many of these coaches have been so willing to share ideas and thoughts, and continue to do so to this day.
What do you think needs to happen in the sport?
I think we need to continue to help grow the sport in this state and I think adding indoor track is something that would really help with that.
What do you hope each athlete of yours learns from the sport?
I think a lot of what we try to teach are things that lend themselves to life lessons as well. Some of those lessons would include that you get out of the sport what you put into it, that there are no short cuts, and that being able to overcome adversity is what makes great things possible.
How long do you see yourself coaching?
I'm still having fun, so as long as that is true, I will continue to coach.
What is your motivation to get on the track each day for practice?
The athletes. Working with super motivated young people is a great way to spend your afternoons.
What challenges have you had as a coach?
I've been fortunate to have some great mentors, great assistants, and great athletes along the way that have made my job much easier.
Who will be in attendance in March at the ceremony from your family and friends?
I am not sure yet, but certainly my wife and our two children, along with my parents.