Joe Vigil

Joe Vigil (born November 25, 1929) is an American track and field coach who specializes in long-distance running.

Over his extensive career, Vigil coached numerous top athletes, including Pat Porter, a national champion in the 10,000 meters and two-time Olympian, and Deena Kastor, an Olympic bronze medalist and former American record holder in the marathon.

He then obtained a Master of Science in chemistry from Colorado College in 1964 before completing his doctorate in exercise physiology at the University of New Mexico in 1972.

[5] Vigil coached and taught at Adams State from 1965 to 1993, taking the university to 19 national titles at track and field, and cross-country.

Vigil, who often emphasizes the importance of education, maintained a 95% graduation rate for student-athletes during his collegiate coaching career.

[6] Vigil has a statue erected in his honor at Adams State University where he was granted the title of Professor Emeritus in 1986.