🎧 From Track Dork to Coaching Icon: The Jennifer Potter Story
“I’m still a track dork.” – Jennifer Potter
🏃♀️ After 30+ years in the sport, Ithaca College’s legendary head coach Jennifer Potter still leads with passion, humility, and a relentless drive to evolve. In this inspiring episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, we go deep on her journey from competitive childhood runs around the farmhouse to becoming a national champion coach and powerful mentor.
🔥 In this episode, you'll discover:
🐾 How a childhood love for running turned into a lifelong calling
🧠 What makes Division III coaching so special—and why she's stayed
💪 The surprising story behind turning down Ithaca (her alma mater!) twice before finally saying yes
🧢 The origin story of the "Bombers" nickname (and why there’s no mascot)
📈 How her competitive edge and curiosity keep her innovating after three decades
🤝 Why she believes mentorship and vulnerability are coaching superpowers
🎯 “I want to challenge them to do something they never thought they could do.”
👟 Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or fan of the sport, this episode is a masterclass in passion, longevity, and purpose
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📲 Stay Connected: Want to get in touch with our host, Mike Cunningham? Follow on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email at mcunningham@gillathletics.com, or text to 217-898-3038. We love hearing from you! 🎧👍
