Mike Byrnes diary

Coach Darryl Hampton: "We're the best."

by Mike Byrnes

Marrakech, 15 July -- Darryl Hampton, Head Coach of the American team competing here in the World Youth Championships waxed enthusiastic about his team. “It’s incredible how these kids have bonded and supported one another. I’m totally elated with our performances so far.”

As of this writing, he has a lot to be proud of. An unprecedented 1-2 sweep in the Girls 100m, a win in the Boys 110mH, a brilliant 400mH win by Ebony Collins and a bronze in both the Girls shot put and the Boy’s 400m. He went on, “Some of our best events are coming up and I think we’re going to do darn well.” Hampton, who basically chose this team himself, knows whereof he speaks. The elaborately tattooed Ebony Collins turned in one of the greatest 400mH performances in history. She raced to victory in 55.96, the fastest time in the world this year and the 3rd fastest ever.!! Her time also set a new sophomore record (Lashinda Demus, 57.04 but NOT her school record! That Long Beach Wilson mark belongs to Demus, 55.76...)

“Our team is half the size of some of these teams and we’re right up there with them,” he opined. The US team totals 32 with many events uncovered. “That doesn’t matter,” said Hampton, “Our kids are ready. We’ll do fine.” He paused and went on, “Lots of kids we’d like to have had never went to a single qualifying meet. Too many coaches don’t even know about the meet. We have to do a better job publicizing the event and the qualifying meets.”

Primarily Hampton with help chose the team from Mike Kennedy (HS Girls Editor, T&FN) and Joy Kamani (Head Female Recruiter for the NIN and NON championships.) “When you’re familiar with Youth athletics you’ve pretty much followed the kids for years, he informed. “Plus I did a lot of research, talked to coaches and others and the selection process was actually pretty easy.” Could he add kids who performed well this past outdoor season? “No. When we first purchased the airline tickets, they were pretty reasonable. Now, the cost has tripled and we just can’t afford it. Besides, most of those late-bloomers never competed in a qualifying meet, so they weren’t eligible anyway.” Can you drop an athlete and replace them? “No. The tickets are the usual non-transferable and non-refundable so you can’t replace anyone.”

Asked if he was enjoying his job he answered, “Immensely! To see these kids coming together as a team and being so proud to represent their country is an honor as well as a pleasure.”

-30-

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