Spotlights
Jerry Baltes
Grand Valley State University track and field coach Jerry Baltes has been the head coach for eighteen years. Between family, cross country and track and field, Jerry is one busy man overseeing 180 students with help from five assistant coaches. Jerry and his coaching staff are constantly planning meets and keeping tabs on student grades and overall well-being. Though very busy, he still carves out time to stay active, practice mindfulness and eat a balanced diet.
Jerry stays active with the cross country, track and field teams and
his own children. He plays baseball with his son, Jack, and attends
with swim practices with daughter Alli. In addition to fun sport
activities with his kids, Jerry adjusts his workouts based on team
practice schedules. A workout may fit in after practice or when the
distance team is on a long run.
From a nutrition stand point, Jerry tries to lead by example
among his family and the team by eating a balanced diet, and staying
hydrated with plenty of water. Jerry tries to be mindful of his intake
of carbohydrates and sugars as well as eating plenty of fruits and
vegetables. He says, maintaining good nutrition and getting plenty of
rest is a great start to developing healthy habits.
To round things out, Jerry stays mindful by taking time for
himself and staying positive throughout his day. When he talks to the
Cross Country/Track and Field teams, he always wants to make sure they
are students first and athletes second. If the athletes have a balance
of both skill in the classroom and on the track, they have the
potential to be as good as the Olympic athletes we see on TV.
His advice? Jerry encourages faculty and staff to find a buddy to
workout with, and set realistic goals.
“If you set realistic goals, you will more likely achieve them and start healthy habits for the long haul”.
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