Message From Coach Ayers

To the Trabuco Hills Track and Field Community, 

This was hard for me to put into words. Maybe you are like me, and you’re still trying to figure out how you feel about all of this. There is so much unknown in the world right now and emotions are high; we feel disappointment, fearful, frustrated and let down. Having a good perspective is important right now: You are going through something that this generation will never forget, but you are safe, you are cared for, and you will get through this. It is ok to be upset the season is over. It is ok to be upset that things didn't work out the way you would have hoped. I am truly sorry and wish I could fix this. 

For me personally, I feel like my opportunity to influence you and spend time with you was cut short. However, this does not take anything away from what we have already done. For those returning, we’re hoping we will get to see each other this summer, and definitely next season. This will be just a weird chapter in your track and field career. I will continue to be your coach and am honored to lead you. We will come back stronger than ever. To the seniors, success is measured not by what you did on the track, but who you became in the process. You will always be a member of the Trabuco Hills Track and Field team. I truly hope you have learned more than only how to improve in your athletic abilities.  I hope you have grown in your character as a person.  I hope this will spark a desire in you to keep growing and learning throughout your entire life. Remember that your effort and self-discipline mean everything. The experiences you have and will have in the future will "build your house".  One day these character qualities will help you become good husbands, good fathers, good friends, and good members of our society. I hope this track and field program had helped move you toward that end. 

I am also training during this time and plan to get better as a coach for you. I am learning and growing in my knowledge and love of track by connecting with coaches all over the country. I am being challenged and am excited for the progress I am making. Each of you inspire me to be better.  A better coach, a better mentor, a better man.  Thank you.

We are a strong team full of young men who have been working very hard for many years. You are dedicated, loyal, driven, and impressive. I know I don’t just speak for myself, I speak for my whole coaching staff when I express just how remarkable you all are.  

Our mission remains the same: To be a team that is disciplined and full of character. This is the true measure of success. You still have more to accomplish.  There is more work to be done.  You are not alone. We may not be together training every day during 7th period, but we are no less of a team. 

I cannot wait to get back to coaching you when the time is right. Until then, live by the principles and values that we say every day:

- Pound the Stone

- Discipline Equals Freedom

- The Weather will always be PERFECT

- Build Your House

Thank you for letting me be your coach. It is an honor that I will never take lightly. The 2020 season is over, but you are not forgotten. I am here for you.

For now, keep training. It is who you are. Come out of this a stronger person. I’m here for you, let me know if you need anything.  This isn't just a team, it is a community for me and I hope it is for you too.   

Seniors, my hope is to still have a senior banquet for you somehow. 

Your coach always, 

Coach JT Ayers