Sean Rice is a lifelong educator, coach, and mentor with more than 35 years of experience guiding student-athletes and serving as an educational leader. His coaching career spans NCAA Division I athletics, high school programs, USATF, AAU, and private coaching, giving him a broad perspective on athlete development at every level.

 

A longtime high school principal, Sean led a highly successful public school community with a strong emphasis on service, leadership, and creating opportunities for all students to succeed. His commitment to youth development extends well beyond the classroom and track. He has served as Vice President of USATF New York, Track & Field Director of the YMCA’s Brooklyn Armory, and Founder of the Prospect Park Youth Running Club.

 

As a coach, Sean has helped athletes achieve success at the highest levels of youth and scholastic competition, including multiple USATF, AAU, and high school national titles. His coaching philosophy emphasizes strong fundamentals, science-based training, personal growth, and the development of confident, resilient young people. Sean has served as the New York State Cross Country coordinator for the New York Special Olympics and member of the New York City Regional Administrative Staff for the Empire State Games.

 

Sean's connection to The Running School is particularly special. His journey with the program spans 42 years, beginning as a camper and progressing through roles as counselor, clinician, and ultimately Camp Director. That firsthand experience gives him a unique understanding of the impact a running camp can have on a young athlete's development—both on and off the track.

 

As Camp Director, Sean is dedicated to leveling the playing field for all athletes by combining a rich, comprehensive sports curriculum with evidence-based training. His goal is to create an environment where every camper can develop essential skills, build confidence, embrace healthy competition, and discover the joy of running.

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Relevant Coaching Certifications

• USA Track & Field National Marathon Specialist Certification

• USA Track & Field National Cross Country Specialist Certification

• USA Track & Field Sports Sciences Certification

• USA Track & Field Level 2 Coaching Certification

• USA Track & Field Level 1 Coaching Certification

• Strong Resilient Child Certificate

• SafeSport Certification

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Notable Recognition

• USATF New York Coach's Lifetime Achievement Award

• 2024 Sri Chinmoy Torch-Bearer Medal

• 2021 Positive Coaching Alliance Regional Double-Goal Coach of the Year Award

• 2019 AAU Zone Coach of the Year Award

• 2018 Kings Against Violence Initiative Hope and Healing Award

• 2014 NAACP ACT-SO New York Teacher of the Year Award

• 2014 USATF Region 1 Coach of the Year Award