TEXARKANA, Texas - Pat Daniels and David Daniels are successful track coaches at their respective schools, but they're also successful once the meets are over with their family.
With decades of coaching combined and countless titles, the Daniels have perfected the art of track and field.
"Right now, I think it's a habit of what we do," Texas High track coach Pat Daniels said. "We do come home and talk about our workouts. What you do on these days is what means the most. Whether it's figuring out a kids strength here or there, we try to find new ways to keep them motivated. It's pretty much a habit now.
"We both have a strong love for kids. We love for kids to be successful. Sometimes, kids just need a little extra love. That's what we both try to provide. Whether it's at school, in-home or out around town. It doesn't necessarily have to be the kids in our respective programs. I don't know his kids as well as mine because we're on two different campuses, but I love his kids as they were my own. I know he feels the same way."
Coach Rabb, as David Daniels is known to his athletes, has been a coach for over four decades and Pat Daniels has also been in the profession for 38 years.
Most recently, Pat Daniels has led the Texas High girls track and field program to five consecutive district titles.
"We're not competitive or anything because he's on the field side and I'm on the running end of it," Daniels said. "There's not a whole lot to be competitive about. Even when we're out there, he'll give me tips to give my kids and I'll do the same for him. For 17 years we worked together at Texas High before he left for Liberty-Eylau. There's never been a competition between us.
"I think it's a combination of our passion for kids and how we feel about each other. It takes both of us to make things work and it also takes a little understanding on both ends. Sometimes I'm still at work or he's still at work. There has to be some give and take on both ends. We're both good about meeting each other halfway."
Daniels also wishes that both the Leopards and Tigers would've been able to finish the rest of their track season.
"As long as we've coached, I've never had this happen before," she said. "It's something new and different, not being on the track this time of year. I know we were both excited to see what our kids were going to do this season. We both had some great seniors that we wish had the opportunity to compete. Sometimes, things are out of your control. This is one of those things,."