Coaches Corner - Justin Piccolo
Where passion meets performance. In this series, we shine a spotlight on the incredible work of coaches across our athletics community. Celebrating the stories, successes, and impact they have on and off the track. From grassroots to greatness, these are the people shaping the future of our sport.
Our Coach today is Justin Piccolo.
How many athletes have you had qualify for nationals in the past and who have you got competing this year?
Over the past 3 years I have successfully coached 5 athletes to national level.
It all began with my son Liam Piccolo, followed by Felicity Buza, Nate Hall, Lucas Crowley and last but not least Hudson Brown.
Liam Piccolo u18 Men - Decathlon.
Felicity Buza - u15 Female - 200m hurdles, 90m hurdles, 100m, and 200m.
Nate Hall - u16 Men - 100m hurdles, 200m hurdles, high jump and triple jump.
Lucas Crowley u15 Men - (T35 and F35 athlete) -100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, long jump, discus and shot put.
Hudson Brown u14 Men - triple jump and 90m hurdles.
What you're most looking forward to about this year’s meet
My athletes have been working so hard behind the scenes on their individual disciplines.
I am looking forward to watching them achieve their goals that we have set together and enjoying the experience of a national event.
What has helped your athletes reach this level?
Involving my athlete’s parents is crucial in developing athlete progress. I am open and honest with families in regard to what needs to be accomplished to achieve goals and reach personal bests. My athletes are dedicated to success and attend multiple training sessions on a weekly basis.
Athletes work to fine tune their skills and techniques under my guidance and support. I also pride myself one 1:1 conversations with my athletes where we set goals and establish areas of improvement.
Any standout stories from this season?
Overall as a squad we have reached new heights. Across the board we have qualified for more events than ever before - an achievement to be celebrated.
Lucas Crowley is set to potentially break a few Australian records in the multi class category.
What advice would you give to emerging coaches aiming for nationals?
I found that talking to families and athletes together is a great way of setting and achieving goals. I encourage other coaches to work with athletes and families together to achieve a common and realistic goal. Athletes need to be supported by a combination of their family and their coaches. We all need to be on the same page to be successful in whatever level that may look like for individual athletes. I am so proud of each and everyone of my athletes and their individual accomplishments.
How can interested athletes find you?
My private coaching business is called KIDZ ON TRACK which was started in 2023. I can be reached on Facebook or my website: www.kidzontrack.au