Latif Thomas, a renowned track and field coach and founder of Complete Track and Field, passed away suddenly on December 7, 2022, at the age of 44. His cause of death has not been disclosed publicly, leaving many fans and followers in shock and grief. In this article, we will pay tribute to his life and legacy, and celebrate his contributions to the sport he loved.
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Who was Latif Thomas?
Latif Thomas was born in Boston, MA, on June 10, 1978, to Linda Marie (Travis) Thomas-Holland and Larry Cornel Thomas, who both predeceased him. He grew up in North Attleboro, MA, where he attended local schools and graduated from North Attleboro High School in 1996. He was a talented sprinter, who earned a scholarship to the University of Connecticut, where he competed in the 200m and was an All Big East athlete. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History in 2000.
How did Latif Thomas become a coach?
Latif Thomas discovered his passion for coaching after his college career. He started as an assistant coach at his alma mater, North Attleboro High School, where he coached the sprints, hurdles, and jumps. He then moved to Bishop Feehan High School in Attleboro, MA, where he led the girls’ team to multiple state titles and records. He also coached at Franklin High School in Franklin, MA, where he worked with the boys’ and girls’ teams.
What was Latif Thomas’ impact on track and field?
Latif Thomas was more than just a coach. He was a visionary, an innovator, and a mentor. He founded Complete Track and Field in 2004, a website that provides coaching resources and education for high school track and field coaches. He created articles, videos, and courses that covered various aspects of the sport, from training methods, to technical skills, to mental preparation. He collaborated with some of the most successful and respected coaches in the country, such as Boo Schexnayder, Tony Veney, and Marc Mangiacotti. He also organized the annual Complete Track and Field Clinic at Harvard University, which attracted over 1,300 athletes and coaches from all 50 states and 12 countries.
Latif Thomas was widely recognized and respected in the track and field community. He was voted the Massachusetts State Track Coaches’ Association Coach of the Year in 2005. He was a certified strength and conditioning specialist from the NSCA, and held a USA Track and Field Level II Certification in sprints, hurdles, and relays. He was a USTFCCCA Event Specialist and a sprint certified coach. He was a featured speaker at major coaching clinics and conferences, such as the Ohio Track and Cross Country Coaches Clinic, the Illinois Wisconsin State Track Coaches Clinic, the New England Track Coaches Clinic, and the USTFCCCA National Convention.
Latif Thomas helped thousands of coaches, athletes, and parents improve their performance and knowledge of track and field. He simplified complex concepts and made them accessible and applicable to anyone who wanted to learn. He inspired and motivated many people to pursue their goals and dreams in the sport. He was a leader, a teacher, and a friend to many.
How did Latif Thomas die?
Latif Thomas died unexpectedly on December 7, 2022, in North Attleboro, MA. His cause of death has not been revealed to the public, and no details have been given about his funeral or memorial service. His death was announced by his colleagues and friends on social media, who expressed their shock and sadness over his passing. Many people shared their memories and gratitude for his influence and guidance. He is survived by his two-year-old daughter, Maya, who was his pride and joy.
Why is Latif Thomas’ death a loss for track and field?
Latif Thomas’ death is a huge loss for the track and field community. He was a pioneer and a trailblazer in the sport, who dedicated his life to improving and advancing it
