TA News

In July, Joel Breakstone and Emily Silver, TA’s track and field teams’ longstanding coaches, were named by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association as the 2024 Boys’ High School Track & Field Coaches of the Year for the state of Vermont. The honor, according to the USTFCCCA “is based on [the coaches’] leadership and the success of the track and field team throughout the season.” It’s rare for two coaches to be named in a state, but for Joel and Emily, who have been coaching together (off and on) since 2003, it seems exactly right.

It was their team coaching that led the 2024 boys team to their fifth state championship in a row, marking their 12th Division III title since 2004 (coincidentally, 2004 was Joel’s first year as head coach). Emily puts it this way, “I really like working with Joel. We have a clear definition of who’s in charge of what events and when there is overlap, we collaborate well.” The feeling is mutual, Joel says, “I feel incredibly lucky to have been able to work with Emily for all these years. I’ve learned so much from her about coaching and building team culture.” They share an approach that is strategic, individualized, and supportive.

Though the goal is always to win, as leaders, Emily and Joel keep the focus on continuous improvement – celebrating nerves overcome, personal records set, and moments of sportsmanship that mattered. The positive team culture fostered by the two coaches is in part due to their own enjoyment of and dedication to the job. “It’s hard to encapsulate, but we’re really into it,” says Emily. She shared the excitement and anticipation she feels at school during a meet day (though was quick to add that “we don’t talk about track in class!”).

This enthusiasm extends to the athletes’ families and to the teams’ many alumni. “Joel and I appreciate all the support the team gets from families. They help create the positive energy we get to cultivate. It’s heartwarming when even parents of graduates come to our meets!” Joel concurs, adding, “Although this is an individual honor, it really is a reflection of all of the great athletes and families that have been part of the track and field team.”

For 2025, Joel and Emily are excited to keep the momentum going and are no doubt already planning their strategy toward new TA titles. And here at TA, we’re excited to have their skill, leadership, and kindness at the helm of our track and field program. Congratulations to Joel and Emily on this well-deserved honor.