Winter Park track and cross country coach Kristin McWilliams becomes the first woman to hold the position of FACA Cross Country Chairman. McWilliams discusses her previous involvement with the organization and her plans as chairman.
Why did you decide to run for FACA Cross Country Chairman?
Mike Boza the outgoing chairman decided to step down. He recommended me to Shelton Crews the Executive Director of FACA who interviewed me and a few others. I then was approved by the board last week and I decided to take the position because I enjoy leadership positions and aim to improve cross country in the state of Florida. I have been an active member of FACA the past ten years attending clinics, making recommendations, etc. I currently serve on the FHSAA Track Advisory Committee. I enjoy serving in this capacity so now I will serve as Chair of FHSAA Cross Country Advisory.
Mike Boza is a legendary coach in Florida what was it like to be nominated by him?
I am blown away that Mike selected me to fill his shoes. When I started coaching at Robinson High in Tampa ten years ago, he took me under his wing and mentored me and encouraged me. At the 2007 UF Mountain Dew invite he pulled be aside to ask me advice on something and after I answered it I actually cried when he walked away I was so excited. He is my mentor, hero, and friend.
Do you remember what the advice was on?
He was making that difficult decision in the 7th man. I coached the Bishop Kenny boys at the time and had a similar situation where the 8th and 7th were virtually a tie. I never told him the crying story, but he knows he is my hero.
What are you most proud of in your 10 years as an active member and what are your goals as chairman?
At one of our sessions at a cross country clinic a few years ago Tony Ryan and I came up with the idea to have arm bands for coaches at the state meet to allow coaches in the infield. We suggested it then FACA coaches there agreed that it was a good idea, the FACA chair suggested it to FHSAA, and the proposal passed. I want to promote the all-star meet. It is a fantastic experience. I have coached two all-star teams and have had multiple athletes run in it. Each year it has improved greatly. I still talk to my north boys team from 2008. I want to also increase FACA membership, continue to put on a strong summer clinic , and promote the clinic to increase participation. I also want to improve communication with coaches before we meet for the December FHSAA advisory committee.
What is it like to be the first woman to hold this position and how do you think this sets a trend for more women to get involved?
I am truly honored at the opportunity. Throughout my career I have often been a minority as a female coaching males. I am super excited and hope more females will get involved in leadership positions. I will serve out Mikes last year of his term and if all goes well I could be reappointed for two three year terms. That's quite a long time to institute change and serve the sport. I think now other female coaches may believe it's possible. I honestly didn't think I would get the opportunity and I may not have applied if Mike hadn't nominated me.
Do you have aspirations for future leadership positions?
Absolutely. I would love to get involved in higher positions in the FACA as well as the USATF. Like many other high school coaches I have toyed with the idea of collegiate coaching. My first priority though is my team and my math position.