Bobby Kersee, a renowned track and field coach, has a unique coaching style where he quietly steps away once his athletes hit the track, a trait that suits his nickname, the “mad scientist.” Kersee has coached several prominent American track stars, including Florence Griffith Joyner, Gail Devers, and Allyson Felix, and currently works with athletes like Athing Mu and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, who recently set a new world record in the 400-meter hurdles at the U.S. Olympic trials.
Kersee’s coaching legacy includes 12 Olympics and 47 U.S. championships, with his athletes consistently bringing home gold medals since the 1984 Summer Games. McLaughlin-Levrone, a favorite to continue this streak, credits Kersee for challenging and pushing her in ways she had not thought possible.
Known for his unconventional coaching methods, Kersee compares his job to that of various professions, like a baker, chemist, woodworker, and psychologist, always emphasizing the importance of understanding the reasons behind his training techniques.
While Kersee’s coaching approach may seem unconventional to some, his results speak for themselves, with athletes like McLaughlin-Levrone breaking records and reaching new heights in their performances.
Despite criticism for keeping his athletes out of too many races, Kersee’s focus remains on ensuring his athletes peak at major competitions. Each athlete under his guidance receives tailored training, with Kersee likening the process to baking different flavors of cakes to suit individual preferences.
Kersee’s influence extends beyond track and field, having worked with athletes from various sports and even expressing a passion for restoring furniture in his spare time. With a track record of success spanning decades, Kersee’s coaching methods continue to produce exceptional results in the world of athletics.
