65. Tom Nohilly: Atlanta Track Club Elite Coach

In episode #65 of the podcast, Dr. Kate and Dr. Kacy interview the new elite head coach of the Atlanta Track Club, Tommy Nohilly. Tommy brings with him an extensive background and experience in running both as an athlete and coach. Tommy began his career as a high school track and field athlete and excelled at the steeplechase, which he continued running into his college career, going on to win a national championship in steeplechase in 1989. He also represented the U.S. at the world championships in the steeplechase in 1995 and 1997. Tommy also brings a robust coaching resume to the table and most recently was involved as a coach for the New Jersey New York Track club and helped coach some of their middle distance runners to national and world acclaim. He then went on to co-found the Empire Elite Track Club in 2021.

Tommy's coaching philosophy is a health first and individualized perspective that really shines in its maturity and depth of perspective. During the interview, Tommy discusses the priority he places on getting to know his athletes as people and really emphasizing connecting with them on a human level to help them realize their personal as well as professional growth. He talks about learning the different factors that motivate certain athletes as well as his intent to create a safe place for growth as athletes push themselves to the limit in their physical training.

During the interview with Dr. Kate and Dr. Kacy, Tommy also discusses his evolution as an athlete and how that informed his coaching philosophy and his focus on holistic health for his athletes including recovery practices, emphasis on sleep and nutrition, and the importance of strength training for longevity. Part of Tommy’s focus on building strong athletes is grounded in his foundations with strength and conditioning as he has a degree in exercise and sports sciences and extensive mentorship in the strength aspect of running. Tommy really has brought a growth mindset to the evolution of his career and transition to coaching and his gratitude for the sport is readily apparent. You will love the positivity that radiates through the way he talks about the sport of running.

This episode is sure to get you fired up for the future of the Atlanta Track Club! Let's go!