By Ember McElrath 

Sapulpa Junior High head cross country, track and field coach, Jeremy Lusk, has been coaching for Sapulpa since 2006. He has also coached basketball for the school but stepped away from basketball when he decided to pursue a master’s degree in education. 

“I am still coaching cross country and track, and I love every second of it,” said Jeremy. 

Growing up in Kansas and Oklahoma, Jeremy played baseball, soccer, and basketball. 

Jeremy did not go into teaching with coaching in mind, but after two years of teaching he was asked to coach. 

“I decided to embrace these opportunities as I knew that coaching would be a way I could see my students outside of the classroom and in a different fashion,” said Jeremy. “I knew it would allow me to have more connection time with them.”

When asked about his favorite part of coaching it was nearly impossible for him to choose one thing. 

“There are so many things I love about coaching young people; I love having the opportunity to encourage young people,” Jeremy said. “I also love seeing student-athletes face adversity, knowing that adversity produces perseverance; there are so many life lessons we learn through sports.”

This season Jeremy is looking forward to getting the opportunity to actually compete. Last year they only attended one track meet due to COVID-19, so getting to compete is huge for them. 

“I really do love the journey of each season and it all goes by so quickly,” Jeremy said. “I have to stop and remind myself often of that so that I don’t miss something.”

In his free time Jeremy enjoys spending time with his wife and three children, running, playing golf, and spending time in the great outdoors. 

This coach’s inspiration comes from his deep faith. 

“I am a Christ follower, and His love, grace, and mercy inspires me to try and do the same for others; I try to teach and coach with love, grace, and mercy,” Jeremy said.