TEXARKANA MAGAZINE
Tonijiah Nard
Coach Black has three kids of his own that compete for the Black Mambas. Coaching one’s own children can pose a challenge. “I do not take it easy on them,” Black explained. “There are kids who look to them to be the example. So, they do not get any slack. I hold them to the same expectations and standards as the others, which is not always easy.” However, it was a conversation between Black and his son that was pivotal for them both. It stemmed from his son making comments regarding how tough the competition was. Black was able to use this moment to explain to his son that life will be a series of competitions, whether for class rank, a job, or track. Raising kids who can handle that adversity and to excel in life is what any parent wants for their children. Coach Black hopes to use track as a tool to deliver those experiences to his own kids and his team as an opportunity to push them and help them grow. According to Coach Black, perspective is key in building relationships with these athletes. Their lives are not always easy. “You never know what happened at home,” he said. “I try to remember that, especially during practice, if they are having a bad day.” Each athlete brings a set of obstacles, whether they are physical, mental, or emotional. This team allows the opportunity for strong role models to meet with kids amid obstacles and walk with them as they learn how to navigate. It is a safe place to work through struggles, and they are given a sense of purpose. It is the goal of the program to focus on the whole child, physically, socially, and emotionally. They are building a team of coaches, mentors, and parents dedicated to teaching kids how to succeed in life. Studies have shown that participation in organized youth sports and exercise programs promotes improved physical health, helps to maintain healthy body weight, improves sleep quality, memory, and mood, promotes better decision making, lowers risk for depression, and increases coping skills and the capacity to learn. The Black Mambas track team serves as the vessel for these kids to expand themselves and affect the world around them for good.
Members of Texarkana Black Mambas Track Club
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