Being Elite is a Way of Life
JACKSON, Tenn. — In nearly four months, West Tennessee Elite Track Club has trained nearly 30 athletes from all over West Tennessee. Club founders hope the team name “Elite” inspires students to carry that mindset on and off the track. “It’s a you versus your sport,” West Tennessee Elite founder Antwoine Beard said. Born in Jackson, but raised in the Bluff City, Beard is dedicated to getting children away from violence and showing them their potential. “Some may not be Olympians, but we’re going to give them the tools in life to basically become whatever they want to be,” Beard said. The head coach wants the West Tennessee Elite Track Club to promote more than athletic development. Character and integrity, Beard says, are the true foundation of the program. “No recruiter will have anything to do with you,” Beard said. “They won’t take a second look at your highlight film or anything like that.” A former track star himself, Beard wants Elite to be a benchmark track club for academic and athletic development. “It gives me something to do this summer than just being at home,” Keyuanna Marsh said. “I get to travel and do something I love to do.” No matter what age or school, Beard say every athlete here is elite. For more information about West Tennessee Elite Track Club, email abbeard14@yahoo.com.
