At Shadow Ridge High School, the long jump and triple jump team is guided by a coach who knows the events inside and out. Coach Holland, a former collegiate jumper, has a clear vision for what it takes to succeed both on the runway and in the classroom.
“When I was in college, I specialized in jumping events, jump, jump, jump, hurdles, sprints,” Coach Holland explained.
His passion for these events carried over into coaching, where he focuses on creating a culture of dedication and accountability.
“I’d describe my coaching style as a culture style. It’s bricks to the family. Either you want to do it or you don’t,” he said.
This approach emphasizes commitment, responsibility, and teamwork, principles that extend beyond the track.
Coach Holland states, “Dedication leads to classwork. If you’re dedicated to track and field, you won’t need to be pushed to come to practice. And if you’re dedicated in school, you’ll make good grades. A’s and B’s preferably.”
Coach Holland looks for athletes who demonstrate hard work, leadership, and the ability to model positive behavior for newer team members.
“Good listening skills and role modeling are just as important as performance,” he reminded.
This season, several athletes have stood out under his guidance.
“There are four girls and one boy who really impressed me,one boy in specific really excelled, and I didn’t expect it,” Coach Holland stated.
When athletes face challenges, Coach Holland emphasizes practice and repetition.
“If they struggle with the runway, we keep working on the runway. If it’s the pit, we keep jumping in the pit. They just need to face it,” he said.
Common mistakes include inconsistent approaches and failing to hit the board, which he corrects through targeted, competitive workouts designed to build consistency.
Reflecting on his time at Shadow Ridge, Coach Holland shared his favorite memory which is winning the state championship.
“Seeing the kids enjoy the moment, the happiness on their faces, that’s what it’s all about,” he said.
For him, coaching isn’t just about distance jumps or medals earned. It’s about shaping dedicated, and responsible athletes who carry lessons from the track into life.
Through dedication, leadership, and a love for the sport, Coach Holland continues to inspire the next generation of Shadow Ridge jumpers to reach new heights, both literally and figuratively.
