In this thrilling episode of the Gill Athletics Connections Podcast, we're recording on the cusp of the 2024 Olympic Trials, buzzing with excitement for the track-filled summer ahead. Join us as we dive into a vibrant conversation with the remarkable June Villers, head coach at Waxahachie High School in Texas. June's journey from a shy seventh grader to a revered track coach is nothing short of inspiring. We discuss her roots, moving frequently as a child before landing in Texas where her passion for track was ignited. Pam DeBoard, her middle school PE teacher, and Brent Jones, her high school coach, played pivotal roles in her development. Their mentorship not only shaped her as an athlete but also inspired her to pursue coaching. June shares invaluable insights from her early coaching days at Palmer, emphasizing the importance of learning all event disciplines and the necessity of effective time management. We explore her transition to North Mesquite and then back to her alma mater, DeSoto, where she assisted her former high school coach before eventually stepping into the head coach role. Her story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and a continuous quest for improvement. Tune in to hear about her strategies for handling the pressures of head coaching, fostering a positive team culture, and her take on the evolving landscape of college recruiting. Whether you're a seasoned coach, an aspiring athlete, or a track and field enthusiast, June's experiences and wisdom are sure to inspire and enlighten. Don't miss this exciting episode filled with passion, dedication, and the love for the sport! 🌟 Explore Our Archive: Dive into over 200 episodes featuring insights from coaching legends like Sean Carlson of Univ of Tennessee, Dave Smith of Oklahoma State, Kyle Rutledge of Pitt State, and many more! Find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more for your listening pleasure. 📲 Stay Connected: Want to get in touch with our host, Mike Cunningham? Follow him on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), shoot him an email at [email protected], or send a text to 217-898-3038. We love hearing from our listeners! 🎧👍