Nathan PeteschClaim this profile

Coed Cross Country/Track & FieldNathan Petesch

Coed Cross Country Assistant Coach

University of Wisconsin (La Crosse)

2.0

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Would Recommend

Overall

2.0

Caring

1.0

Motivational

1.0

Knowledgeable

4.0

Honest

2.0

Tags

DirectFitness Is ImportantIntenseOld School MentalityPoor Communication

Coach Petesch seems very focused on performance standards and building a more competitive program, but the environment felt very discouraging and unsupportive, especially for athletes who are still developing. A lot of emphasis is placed on times and whether athletes are considered “competitive enough,” which can make it feel like your value on the team depends more on immediate results than effort, growth, or long-term potential. He has openly said that most of the team is not at a true college competitive standard and that only a smaller portion of athletes are really at the level he wants. While high expectations are understandable, the delivery often comes across as harsh and dismissive rather than motivating. For a Division III program, it feels like there is very little patience for development, especially for athletes coming back from injuries or trying to rebuild confidence. Communication and feedback can also be frustrating. Many athletes feel unsure of where they stand unless they directly ask, and even then, the responses can feel more critical than constructive or blatantly ignored. Instead of feeling coached, it can feel like you are constantly trying to prove you deserve a spot. There is also a strong emphasis on team culture and lifestyle choices, with assumptions made about athletes being “social” or not taking the sport seriously enough, even in points of transition ex. long bus trip. While accountability matters, it can feel unfair when athletes who are working hard are still grouped into that narrative. If you are already a top performer and respond well to a very blunt, results-driven coaching style, this environment may work for you. But if you are looking for a coach who prioritizes athlete development, encouragement, and building confidence alongside performance, this may not be the best fit.