“I first had Atanas as my coach during my final season in 2012-2013 at the University of Washington. After having a different coach for every year, I was curious to see what our new volunteer multi-event coach was like. I was first impressed by how attentive Atanas was to each athlete, especially how they felt going into each practice session. Atanas has a strong command for the big picture of preparation for peak competitions in the year ahead, while being able to tailor the day-to-day sessions for each athlete.

Compared to previous years where I wasn’t coached by Atanas, I went from being injured more than 50% of the time, to having long and healthy competitive seasons where I was the strongest, most explosive and most fit physically that I have ever been.  Atanas has a scientific and human approach to coaching his athletes. His presence both on the track and off the track help inspire you with confidence and strengthen your resolve during the harder parts of the season and before big competitions. It is always a joy to watch Atanas do what he loves, making athletes thrive mentally and physically in their sport. I will forever be grateful for his dedication and abilities that helped me compete amongst the greatest athletes in the world at the 2016 Olympic Games. Thank you Atanas!”

— Jeremy Taiwo