avatar

Building Champions: Inside Iowa Western’s Rise Under Coach Marc Bierbaum on episode 308

Airey Bros.'s Radio
Airey Bros.'s Radio
Episode • Nov 5, 2024 • 1h 16m
Get ready to be inspired! In this episode of Airey Bros Radio, we’re joined by Coach Marc Bierbaum, Director of Cross Country and Track & Field at Iowa Western Community College, who has led his team to remarkable achievements. With 14 individual NJCAA National Championships, 147 All-Americans, and 38 school records in just two seasons, Coach Bierbaum shares his insights on training elite athletes, creating a close-knit team culture, and the intense journey to NJCAA Nationals in Richmond, Virginia. From Iowa Western’s world-class facilities to recruiting top talent from around the globe, we explore the life of a collegiate coach and the challenges and rewards of junior college athletics. Whether you're a student-athlete or a fan of the sport, this episode provides a compelling look at the path to success at Iowa Western.Show Notes:
  • [0:07] - Introduction to Airey Bros Radio: Purpose and vision for highlighting colleges and athletic programs that welcome dedicated student-athletes.
  • [1:23] - Welcoming Coach Marc Bierbaum: A rundown of his record-breaking accomplishments and Iowa Western's cross-country rankings.
  • [6:10] - Iowa Western's recent wins and conference results, including a thrilling showdown with top contenders.
  • [8:05] - Team dynamics: Coach Bierbaum on roster diversity, international recruitment, and team-building.
  • [12:26] - Managing a diverse team: Insights on international athletes, food preferences, and adapting to Iowa’s climate.
  • [14:42] - The role of junior college athletics in personal growth, maturity, and transition to NCAA programs.
  • [20:54] - Training philosophy: Traditional vs. double-threshold training for endurance.
  • [31:02] - Iowa Western's winning legacy and success across multiple sports programs.
  • [40:03] - Junior college athletics: The pathway to future athletic and academic success.
  • [46:14] - Why Iowa Western is unlike typical JCs, from facilities to student support.
  • [52:23] - The upcoming journey to NJCAA Nationals in Richmond, VA.
Follow the Reivers on Socials
IWCC Cross Country 
Instagram

Switch to the Fountain App

Open in Fountain