Growth & Development Issues in Middle School Distance Runners

with Scott Christensen
Stillwater Area High School (MN) Head Girls Track & Field / Cross Country Coach;
Stillwater Area High School (MN) Head Boys Track & Field / Cross Country Coach from 1980 to 2023;
2023 NHSACA Boys Track & Field National Coach of the Year recipient;
5x Minnesota State Boys Track & Field team champions;
5x Minnesota State Boys Cross Country team champions;
3x MN True Team Track & Field State Champions;
1997 USA National Cross Country champions;
Has coached 23 individual state track & field and 2 individual state cross country champions;
USATF National Endurance Special Projects Instructor;
USATF National Level 2 Endurance Lead Instructor;
IAAF Level 5 Academy Instructor;
USTFCCCA Endurance Master's Course Instructor;
Is the only coach/program in U.S. high school history to produce four alumni sub 4:00 milers

2023 NHSACA Boys Track & Field National Coach of the Year Scott Christensen takes you through a vitally important series of considerations for growth and development issues in middle school distance runners.

From research done to help teachers, Coach Christensen explains several psychologically based facts to remember when working with this age group, including the importance of self governance and independence, how children in this age range underestimate themselves, and why the "results" in part, determine their enjoyment.

• Learn the top six reasons young athletes quit athletics
• Understand why developing a nurturing and safe environment both physical and psychological is critical

The Maturation Process & Growth Principles: "Don't go there until it's time to go there."
Coach Christensen tells you why an athlete's biological age may be the most important variable in determining the correct and appropriate training method. You will learn why coaches should establish a profile of each athlete, tracking their readiness, growth, and progress. This information is a gold mine when planning training.

• How hormonal, cognitive, biomechanical, and aerobic maturation impacts running ability
• The problem with speed development in young athletes and how to address it
• How to foster cognitive, social, and psychological skills within practice
• Why age-appropriate training benefits athletes both as people and competitors

Coach Christensen thoroughly explains these topics, blending the art and science of coaching. He demonstrates why understanding each athlete individually allows for tailored training and better results.

Customer Review: 5 Out of 5 Stars!
"This video is suitable for all coaches - it is full of great insight and coaching gems!"

54 minutes. 2025.