About David

With over four decades of coaching experience, David Park has built a legacy of excellence, resilience, and mentorship. As the long-time head cross country and track coach at Decatur High School, Park led teams to six state championships, instilling in his athletes the values of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork.

Beyond coaching, Park is a motivational speaker, author, and cancer survivor, dedicated to inspiring others through faith-based leadership and personal growth. His upcoming book, Focal Point—"Lead with Vision, Finish with Legacy:" The Ultimate Playbook for Life, shares his powerful journey and lessons on living a purposeful life.

David Park’s Impact

“My respect, admiration, and gratitude for Coach Park has no limits. Coach Park is awesome! His coaching shaped me not only as an athlete but also a person. Two sayings that helped motivate me when competing and that have stuck with me in life include: Tough times don’t last, but tough people do.” and “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”

Hanna(Galloway) Hillestad
Former Student/Athlete

“Coach Park is one of the most caring and influential people that I have ever met. I consider myself very blessed to have been able to spend so many hours with him throughout years.”

Gabe Embree
Former Student/Athlete