Track is more than a sport for Quentin Iglehart-Summers. It’s a calling.
“It’s you versus you every day. It’s a different beast. It’s tough, but it’s definitely rewarding.”
Summers is the Head Cross Country and Girls Track Coach at Madison High School. Nearly 20 years ago, he was a student at Madison, where he ran on the track team and earned a scholarship to run for Baylor University.
Before arriving at Madison, he attended Northern Hills Elementary School and Driscoll and Wood middle schools. His passion for track took off in high school. During his senior year, he and his teammates represented Madison at the UIL State Track Meet. Summers finished second overall in the 400 meter race and scored another silver in the 400 meter relay.
He continued his track career at Baylor and then ran professionally, competing in meets around the world. When it was time to move on to the next chapter of life, he wasn’t ready to leave track behind. Thankfully, he returned to Madison as a teacher and coach.
“I loved track and field and when I was done running, I knew I still wanted to be around it,” said Summers. “It was exciting to come back. I think I have an extra sense of pride for what we’re doing, having graduated from here.”
Track can be as taxing mentally as it is physically. It’s important for Summers to connect with his students and make cross country and track a fun experience.
“I try my best to remember what they’re going through. I’m big on respect and being punctual, but I try to bring jokes to what we’re doing. We do our best to have fun even when it’s tough.”
In 2022, he was inducted into the Baylor Athletics Hall of Fame. It was an honor he didn’t see coming, but one he’ll never forget.
“It was a dream come true. It’s one of those things you never expect to happen. When I got the call, I was shocked and so thankful. It’s still kind of surreal to be honest.”
Thank you, Coach Summers, for coming back to where the dream started #theNEISDway.
