#318: Lewis Edmonson-Hearne (TX) High School

🎙️ From Hurdles to Healing: The Resilient Journey of Lewis Edmonson

In this inspiring episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, we sit down with Lewis Edmonson, head track coach at Hearne High School (TX). From growing up racing his dad in the street to winning conference titles at Prairie View A&M, Lewis shares his deeply personal and powerful journey—one filled with competitive fire, coaching passion, and life-altering experiences.

🔥 In this episode, we explore:

🧠 How a coach’s role extends far beyond the track

🏃‍♂️ Summer track beginnings and a competitive bond with his father

💔 The horrific van crash that left him with a broken neck—and how football unknowingly saved him

🥇 Going undefeated in hurdles and redefining what it means to be a champion

🧱 The importance of fundamentals in coaching, regardless of talent level

🤝 The challenges and rewards of coaching multi-sport athletes in small-town Texas

💬 Why Lewis believes relationships matter more than championships

👟 Getting kids to try track through connection, not punishment

💬 “You can correct the role, but you have to praise the individual.”

— Lewis Edmonson

If you’re a coach, athlete, or just someone who believes in the power of people-first leadership, this episode will move you.

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