Hurdles and Hustle: Paris Williams' Coaching Kickoff

Who is Paris Williams?

Paris Williams is a former collegiate hurdler at Kennesaw State University who continues to stay active in the sport through both personal competition and coaching. After graduating, Paris made a swift transition from athlete to mentor—without ever hanging up his spikes. While many athletes move on after college, Paris doubled down, choosing to give back to the same community that helped shape his mindset and discipline. Passionate, technical, and deeply connected to the game, Paris carries with him not only his experience on the track but a growing reputation as a coach who understands his athletes from the inside out. Still training and competing himself, Paris represents a rare blend of firsthand intensity and rising mentorship. His journey is about more than wins or personal bests—it's about maintaining a lifelong relationship with the sport he loves, even as he passes the baton to the next wave of runners.

Career Role: Collegiate Track Coach & Athlete

As a first-year collegiate coach at his alma mater, Paris Williams brings a fresh, athlete-centered approach to track and field mentorship. His unique position—being both a coach and an active hurdler—allows him to relate directly to the physical, mental, and emotional demands his athletes face. Coaching doesn’t just involve designing workouts or timing sprints; it requires leadership, emotional intelligence, and consistency. Paris uses his proximity to the sport to build trust with athletes and guide them through the peaks and valleys of collegiate track life. Balancing the dual roles of coach and competitor, he constantly refines his communication style and strategic planning. His position also involves managing athlete development, communicating with staff, and making the most of limited practice resources. It’s a demanding yet rewarding role, one that sets the foundation for his long-term future in the world of athletics—whether that’s trackside or in the office.

Interview Summary

In Episode 2 of Backgrounds & Break-Ins, Paris shared how coaching was not an afterthought but an intentional decision fueled by gratitude and ambition. While still actively competing in hurdles at a high level, he saw coaching as a way to give back to younger athletes while continuing to challenge himself in new ways. The interview explores how he adjusted to managing time between his own training and his athletes’ needs, and how communication and structure have become core skills. Paris emphasizes that mentorship in track extends beyond speed or form—it’s about accountability, confidence-building, and guiding others to tap into their full potential. He also touches on the pressures of coaching peers, sharing space, and maintaining motivation over long seasons. Whether it’s setting up blocks or reviewing film, Paris is deeply engaged—and every lap he runs or coaches builds his personal legacy.

Pros of the role

1. Peer Perspective – Paris’ current athletic status helps him relate directly to his athletes’ challenges.

2. Continued Growth – Coaching provides Paris a new developmental lane while staying active in the sport.

3. Legacy Building – He can begin leaving a positive mark early, even while still writing his own story.

Cons of the role

1. Time Constraints – Managing dual roles as athlete and coach demands precise scheduling and discipline.

2. Facility Access – Paris often navigates around shared or limited training spaces.

3. Athlete Retention – Keeping student-athletes engaged and bought into the program is a constant process.