“I've coached for 25 years, at all levels of the sport, and I can say with confidence that Alex Lyons is one of the sharpest minds and clearest thinkers in distance running. Alex is one of the few coaches who truly understands both the science of coaching and the art of coaching. Perhaps the strongest endorsement I can offer is this: as a father of both a high school  and middle school athlete, I would trust Alex completely to guide my own children's training.

If you're a parent with the opportunity to have Alex work with your son or daughter, you won't regret it. Alex's expertise and approach to coaching will set them up for success in high school and beyond.

If you're a coach - at any level - looking to accelerate your professional development, spending time with Alex is invaluable. Whether you're trying to get your team on the podium or simply want to deepen your understanding of the sport, an hour or two on a call with Alex will do more for your coaching than attending a typical coaching clinic (and I say this as someone who puts on coaching clinics).” 

-Jay Johnson

Director, Boulder Running Clinics

Former University of Colorado Middle Distance Coach

Coach of 3 US Champions on the Track and XC Course

Author of Consistency is Key

“I have been fortunate to work alongside Alex and personally benefit from his uncommon care, clarity, and wisdom. Any time speaking with him is worthwhile. I would like to do so more! For coaches seeking to optimally support their athletes I strongly recommend him.”

-Shannon Thompson

Mental Performance Coach, Northern Arizona Cross Country (2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021, and 2022 NCAA Champions)

“Over the past 20 years, I've had the opportunity to get to know many of the best cross country and track and field coaches in the United States, at all levels. If you asked me who I would want most to coach my own children, Alex would be one of my very first choices. He has an otherworldly ability to observe, evaluate, ask questions, and offer solutions that line up with his own vast research and experience. Working with him will give you access to decades of intentional, intelligent work. I've been coaching for 23 years, and I ask him questions all the time. His suggestions and reflections always make me better and give me an approach I had not yet considered. There’s no better resource for a coach than Alex.”

-John O’Malley, Sandburg HS

2x Illinois State Cross Country Champions

4x State Champions in 4×800M Relay

2015 and 2016 NXN Qualifiers

Coach of the 2009, 2010, and 2017 Footlocker National Champions

“Meeting with Alex is one of the better coaching decisions I've made over the last year.  I think when you hear about consultants, your immediate reaction is that this person is going to come in and change everything, or rip up what you've already created, or tell you what you're doing wrong.  My experience with Alex was the complete opposite.  He did a wonderful job of looking at my training plan, asking questions, and figuring out my why behind certain workouts or phases of the season.  He challenged my thought process in a thoughtful way and really helped me to articulate what I was doing, which will help me to articulate that better with my kids.  

I really appreciated my time with Alex and would encourage any and all coaches, new or experienced, to work with him.   In return you'll receive thoughtful mentorship and guidance, and your program is sure to improve.”

-Eric Dettman, Lincoln HS

2024 Oregon State Cross Country Champions

2021, 2023, and 2024 NXN Qualifiers

“Alex spoke at the Ohio Coaches Association Cross Country Clinic and was a MAJOR HIT! His overall rating from over 200 attendees was a 4.92 out of 5. Many of the attendees said the same thing: "Alex did a great job of breaking things down to our level" and "Alex spoke in a way that was easy to understand" and "I could listen to Alex all day." As a director, Alex was easy to work with, and offered an amazing value. It is without a doubt that I will invite Alex back to speak in the future as he did an outstanding job.” 

-Matt Schock

Director, Ohio Coaches’ Association Cross Country Clinic

“Alex is a tremendous coach and a very valuable resource.  He has spent endless hours researching, learning, being mentored, and applying his learned skills within various coaching settings.  I spoke with Alex about cross country and track coaching principles and found it extremely valuable!  I have attended many conferences, but the one-on-one attention and ability to ask specific training questions was exceptional and very beneficial. 

Alex is patient, clear, and easy to understand.  He can use a variety of examples and reinforce many of the training principles coaches use.  Alex is a great resource for coaches looking to make training modifications and/or for coaches to develop professionally within the sport.  I strongly recommend Alex to both new and veteran coaches!  I look forward to utilizing Alex again soon.”

-Lauren DeAngelis, York High School

2021 Illinois State Cross Country Champions

2022 and 2023 NXN Qualifiers

“I’ve known Alex for many years.  We have coached against each other, and together on the same staff.  Alex has spent years learning, researching, and applying his knowledge to help athletes and coaches improve.  His understanding of training, running mechanics, communication with athletes, and more make him an exceptional coach and teacher of our sport.  I cannot think of a better resource for coaches who are looking to take the next step in their coaching journey.” 

-Tim McDonald, Downers Grove North HS

2023 and 2024 NXN Qualifiers

“Alex is an exceptionally knowledgeable and well-versed professional in the realm of coaching. His expertise in training methods and strategies is evident, and he has an incredible ability to help you see things from new perspectives. If you're looking to elevate your coaching game, Alex is an outstanding choice.”

-Chase Englestead, Snow College

Former Coach of Riverton HS, 2023 NXN Qualifiers