Getting to Know Brian O'Neal
Tuesday, September 2, 2008 | Track and Field
Q: You were at Ole Miss for 15 years, why did you decide to make the move to Florida?
A: “I have known and respected Coach Holloway and the Florida track program for many years. So when Coach Holloway spoke with me about his vision for the program, I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”
Q: What made you want to go into coaching?
A: “I enjoyed competing in the SEC and when the opportunity came to get a start in coaching at Ole Miss after my four years of eligibility, I jumped at the chance. It's a blessing to help guide young adults to fulfilling their potential both on and off the track.”
Q: When did you start running and how did you get into track and field?
A: “I started running in the ninth grade. We had a fun run at my school and I competed without practicing and wound up beating the guy who was fourth or fifth in the state cross country meet that year. That's where my love for the sport started and I've loved it since then.”
Q: Have you spoken with a lot of your athletes yet and what have they had to say?
A: “I've talked to all of the athletes I'll be working with this year. The vibe that I received is they are excited and ready to start the new year.”
Q: What makes SEC Track and Field so special?
A: “In the SEC, there really aren't any weak links. You have 12 staffs that believe they have someone very capable of winning, whether it's a SEC title or a NCAA title. But what sets the SEC apart from the other conferences is the depth and talent level in each event area and the credentials of the coaches that work with these athletes.”
Q: How much are you looking forward to having the SEC Outdoor Championships in Gainesville this coming year?
A: “I am definitely looking forward to it. It's always good to compete at home in familiar surroundings and to have the support of family and friends who will come out and support the Gators.”
Q: What are your thoughts about the NCAA Championships this year with the indoors being at Texas A&M and the outdoors at Arkansas?
A: “It will be different accommodations, but the preparation leading up to the championships will be the same. It's going to be competitive wherever it is, we just have to go out and show people what the Gators can do.”
Q: What do you like about Florida since you've been here?
A: “The standard of excellence that has been set academically and athletically. I love and respect how every sport has been able to compete at a very high level. I'm reminded of this daily as I pass the trophy cases on the way to my office.”
Q: What are your interests outside of track?
A: “I love spending time with my wife and kids. We have two children- a 6-year-old and 4-year-old, and I think most parents will tell you their lives revolve around their children. Being “Dad” to my kids is the best job title in the world.”
Q: Has it been a tough adjustment to Gainesville after spending much of your life in one general area of the country?
A: “Not really. We are blessed to be around very helpful people who have been around Gainesville for quite some time and all of their recommendations have been great. From the coaching staff, athletic staff, to HR, they all have made the adjustment for my family and me a smooth one.”
Q: How excited are you to begin the season?
A: "I am extremely excited to begin this season."
