Olympic gold medalist Tara Davis-Woodhall is redefining what it means to be a champion. At 25, the long jump sensation has taken on a new role as an assistant coach for the Kansas State track and field team, signaling a bold step in her career.
But this move isn’t just about enhancing her own athletic prowess—it’s about mentorship, resilience, and giving back to the sport she loves.
“I want to be the person I needed during college,” Davis-Woodhall shared with SELF, reflecting on her own journey through struggles that shaped her into the athlete and person she is today.
A Champion’s Journey: Overcoming Adversity
Davis-Woodhall’s path to Olympic gold wasn’t without challenges. Her journey was marked by injuries, depression, family turmoil, and the difficulties of transferring schools. These experiences gave her unique insights into the pressures student-athletes face.
“I’ve been through so much, and that gives me the experience to mentor others,” she said. Beyond her technical expertise, her relatability stands out. “I’m not that much older than the students, so I understand what they’re going through.”
Her struggles began long before college. Moving to Calabasas, California, at 11 years old, she encountered racism and isolation as the only Black girl in her school.
“I realized, ‘Oh my gosh, it’s because I’m the only Black girl,’” Davis-Woodhall told SHRM INCLUSION in Nov. 2024. These early experiences sowed the seeds of depression and body image struggles, battles she overcame with resilience and determination.
Balancing Coaching and Competing
Despite her coaching commitments, Davis-Woodhall remains focused on defending her Olympic long jump title at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Her approach is a blend of coaching and training—a symbiotic relationship that she believes will benefit both her and the athletes she mentors.
“I’ll be training with them. It’s the best of both worlds,” she explained. As the team’s assistant coach, she hopes to lead by example, inspiring her athletes to strive for excellence both on and off the track.
Paving the Way for a New Era
As Davis-Woodhall embarks on this dual role, her influence is already drawing attention. Track and field legend Justin Gatlin sees limitless potential in her, predicting she might explore other events beyond the long jump.
“She is that talented. I wouldn’t be surprised to see her in the 100m or even attempting a triple jump,” Gatlin remarked.
Whether she broadens her horizons or stays focused on her signature event, one thing is clear: Tara Davis-Woodhall is embracing this new chapter with the same determination that earned her Olympic gold.
This new chapter in Tara Davis-Woodhall’s life isn’t just about medals and records—it’s about inspiring the next generation to overcome adversity, dream big, and leave their mark on the world.
