At TrackGirlz, we are committed to empowering the next generation of female athletes. Our core values— Boldness, Resilience, Authenticity, Vision, Excellence, Unity, and Poise—guide everything we do, from providing opportunities in track and field to supporting each girl’s personal journey. These values are exemplified by the women who have come before us, like Alice Coachman, who broke barriers, shattered records, and paved the way for future generations.
Alice Coachman: A Trailblazer Who Paved the Way for TrackGirlz
Alice Coachman is an icon. As the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold medal, she redefined what was possible for women in sports. Her story embodies everything TrackGirlz stands for: Resilience, Boldness, Authenticity, and using track and field as a vehicle for greater opportunities in life.
Overcoming Barriers with Vision and Poise
Growing up in Albany, Georgia, during the Jim Crow era, Coachman faced racial segregation and gender restrictions that made it nearly impossible for Black girls to pursue athletics. With limited access to training facilities and competition opportunities, she had to get creative—running barefoot on dirt roads and using homemade equipment to practice her jumps. Despite these challenges, she dominated high school competitions and later earned a scholarship to Tuskegee Institute.
Making History at the 1948 Olympics with Excellence
Coachman’s defining moment came at the 1948 London Olympics, where she won gold in the high jump with a record-breaking leap of 1.68m (5 ft 6 in). As the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold, her victory became a defining moment not only for women’s sports but also for Black women in athletics. Coachman’s achievement proved that women, especially Black women, belong in sports. Her legacy still inspires athletes and sets a standard of excellence.
Leaving a Legacy of Unity and Poise
After retiring from competition, Coachman continued to make an impact. She became a role model, mentor, and advocate for young athletes. She was also the first Black woman to secure an endorsement deal (with Coca-Cola), opening doors for female athletes in professional sports and sponsorships.
What Alice’s Legacy Means for TrackGirlz
Coachman’s story is why TrackGirlz exists. She proved that access to sports can change lives, especially for girls who face financial, racial, or social barriers. At TrackGirlz, we work to ensure that every girl—no matter her background—has the opportunity to experience the empowerment that track and field brings. Whether it’s providing training programs, mentorship, or scholarships, we are here to continue the legacy of women like Coachman, making sure that the next generation of TrackGirlz can reach their full potential.
You Are the Next Alice Coachman
If you’ve ever felt like the odds are stacked against you, remember Coachman. She started with nothing but a dream and determination—and ended up making history. Whether you’re lacing up for your first race or setting your sights on the Olympics, know that you are part of a lineage of strong, powerful women who dared to defy the limits. Keep training, keep dreaming, and keep proving that TrackGirlz belong.
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