Mr. Romano, a teacher who teaches math here at IMS/Iselin Middle School, and enjoys working with students who love to learn about math.
Today, we are interviewing Mr. Romano about Cross Country. Cross-country running is a demanding sport that combines endurance and different strategies, typically involving races. Coaches play a crucial role in the development of athletes by helping them to train and increase physical fitness and speed.
What’s your goal for the cross-country team?
Mr. Romano – The goal is for the runners to improve their times and for our team to win the district championship.
Why did you choose to be a cross-country teacher/coach?
Mr. Romano – I enjoy cross country because it is inclusive of all students, and nobody is cut from the team. There is a lot of potential for individual growth throughout the season, and between 6th and 8th grade runners stay with us for a long time.
Is it hard waking up early for cross-country?
Mr. Romano – It is, but I find it a great time of the year to be outside and enjoy the weather and traffic.
What inspired you to become a cross-country coach?
Mr. Romano – The fact that it’s very inclusive, nobody is cut from the team, and the enjoyment of seeing runners improving their times, and the races.
How do you motivate and lead your team?
Mr. Romano – I reassure them and talk positively to them, and tell them to give it their best and put it all out on the line.
How do you handle difficult situations or challenges within the team?
Mr. Romano – It is important to pause and take a minute to discuss it with the other coach, Coach Malleck, and use good judgment from past experiences to navigate those situations.
How do you help your athletes who are feeling anxious or nervous before a meet?
Mr. Romano – I try to reassure them, tell them that all they can control is trying their best. I tell them to do their best and make them realize it’s for fun, and is not too serious, and if they don’t finish where they would like to, it is not the end of the world.
What is the team’s schedule for the season, including practice times and races?
Mr. Romano – We practice every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday before school. Then, during April and May, we have 4 meets against the other teams and the final meet of champions.
What is your communication style and availability?
Mr. Romano – I try to be assertive but also welcoming and motivating. I don’t want to be intimidating or mean. I want my messages to get across.
How do you communicate with athletes about their progress and goals?
Mr. Romano – I communicate about their progress and goals by just general motivating strategies, telling them to work hard, don’t give up, and focus on getting better as an individual. Not looking at what other runners are doing.
Do you have anything else to add?
Mr. Romano – I enjoyed this interview, and thank you for interviewing me.