Training Like Olympians: Remel Williams Brings Olympic Trials Experience Back to Piedmont

By Danielle Percival: Assistant A.D. of Communications

10/14/2024 6:00:00 PM

DEMOREST, Ga. - Piedmont was represented in Eugene, Oregon at the U.S. Track & Field Olympic Trials in June, and Remel Williams, an assistant track and field coach for the Lions, is bringing the knowledge she gained home to the Lions.

Williams recently completed her Level 3 certification in Sprints, Hurdles, and Relays through the USA Track & Field Professional Pathway program, the highest level of certification through USATF. Through that opportunity, she was encouraged to apply for the USATF National Championship Mentorship Grant, which afforded her the chance to shadow legendary coach Tonja Buford-Bailey at the U.S. Olympic Trials for Track & Field in June.

“I was allowed to follow around Tonja Buford-Bailey, Gabby Thomas’ coach, for three days. I got to interact with her athletes, follow them around, and ask her questions about her training. She was a great resource and said I could continue to contact her and keep in touch.”

Remel Williams, assistant Piedmont track and field coach

Gabby Thomas went on to win three gold medals at the 2024 Olympics including the individual 200-meter.

Despite the level of competition being some of the highest in the sport, Williams saw many correlations to the work she does daily with Piedmont’s student-athletes.

“Even though these individuals are Olympians or trying to be Olympians, my student-athletes are doing the exact same workouts sometimes or having some of the same issues.

Now I have these resources, and I can call them and say ‘Hey, I’m having this same issue you talked about last year. How do I help my athletes succeed?’”

Remel Williams, assistant Piedmont track and field coach

To qualify for the mentorship opportunity, a coach must have led student-athletes to a championship at their level, and during her time at Piedmont, Williams guided Anthony Jordan to a historic season in the long jump in 2022. Jordan earned All-American honors at the NCAA Division III Indoor Track & Field Championship finishing third in the event and became Piedmont’s first track & field athlete to earn NCAA All-American honors.

Coach Remel impacted my training by ensuring that I did the little things right. She also was always able to keep me level-headed and in control of my emotions, good or bad.

Anthony Jordan, former Piedmont track & field athlete & Division III All-American

I think the most amazing quality that Remel possesses is that she is just as good a “life coach” as she is a “track coach.” Her guidance off the track ensures that her athletes succeed in life after track is over. I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without her genuine care about her athletes' future.

Anthony Jordan, former Piedmont track & field athlete & Division III All-American

The impact Williams has on her student-athletes is undeniable, and while they are receiving instruction from her, she is also always striving to be a life-long learner.

I think professional development is extremely important. One of the quotes that stood out to me is from Mike Holloway at Florida, ‘The moment you think you know everything in the sport is the minute you need to quit.’ I’m always learning. I’m always trying to find something better for the student-athletes that I have.

Remel Williams, assistant Piedmont track and field coach

Having said that, it comes as no surprise that Williams is currently completing her doctoral program in education through Lincoln Memorial University.

With her extensive background in the sport of track and field and the level of care she continually shows, her athletes are all in.

Having a coach like Remel who knows what to do to maximize your potential is so reassuring as an athlete. You’re willing to go all out when you know your coach knows the ins and outs of track and field. There was never a doubt in my mind about any of Remel’s tactics to make sure I competed to my best ability, and I’m forever grateful for her!

Anthony Jordan, former Piedmont track & field athlete & Division III All-American

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