Coach James Taylor is serving in his 17th year as coach of the girl’s track and field program at Warren Central High School. He has been the head coach for six years, during which time he led the Lady Warriors to two state championships and three state runners-up titles. His other state title came as an assistant coach under former University of Illinois standout Hope Sanders.
Since his arrival in 1995, Taylor has assisted in helping the Warren Central girl’s track team become one of the premiere track and field programs in the state of Indiana. His excellence in the sport has been personified by producing a plethora of state qualifiers, state champions, and more importantly, college graduates, during his tenure.
Recently, Taylor’s second-ranked Lady Warriors had a busy, but productive week. They started by winning the inaugural Jeffersonville Invitational, then beat four of the top ranked teams in the state by winning the Hamilton Southeastern Relays. They finished the week by winning their conference title against the likes of Carmel, Lawrence North and Ben Davis.
Coach E: What has been the secret to your success at Warren Central?
Coach James Taylor: The secret to Warren Central’s girls track team’s success is not really a secret. My entire coaching staff, as well as the faculty and staff members, make our young ladies feel appreciated and loved. They know that they are important everyday!
Why is there a steady decline in female participation in athletics?
The decline stems from a lack of parental involvement. You will find that many young ladies would like to be a part of something special, but they may lack someone to inspire them to “just do it.” When that happens, their peers influence them to “just do” other things.
Why is it important for urban females to participate in athletics?
The old Nike commercial back in the ‘90s advocated that if young ladies participate in sports, they will be less likely to become pregnant at an early age, they will be less likely to have heart problems, less likely to run away from home, less likely to become a victim of domestic abuse, and the list goes on and on.
What advice would you give to young coaches trying to increase their participation numbers?
My advice for young coaches is to show unbridled enthusiasm; surround yourself with people who share your vision of love and service. If you do these simple things, well, they will come.
