Mechelle Freeman, the coach who led the U.S. women’s relay team to gold in Paris, has opened up about the struggles she shares with sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson, emphasizing the challenges they both faced in overcoming criticism and doubt.
As the driving force behind the winning technique that propelled Sha’Carri Richardson, Gabby Thomas, Melissa Jefferson, and Twanisha Terry to victory in the women’s 4x100m relay at the Paris Olympic Games, Freeman has built a strong legacy in track and field. However, her journey to success was not without obstacles, much like Richardson’s own path.
Since taking on the role of Team USA’s relay coach in 2015, Freeman has played a significant role in the team’s success, guiding the women’s 4x100m relay squad to eight medals, including three Olympic podium finishes. Additionally, she led the women’s 4x400m relay team to 12 medals. Despite these accomplishments, she has faced skepticism and doubters who questioned her ability to be an elite coach.
Her story closely aligns with that of Sha’Carri Richardson, who has frequently spoken about the criticism she has endured throughout her career. A video recently shared by Nike featured Richardson discussing the expectations placed on her and how she had to prove herself repeatedly.
“People will be quick to tell you, ‘You need to learn your place,’ so I did. It’s first,” Richardson stated in the video.
Freeman responded to the video on social media, writing, “Literally what happened to me…” Her words resonated with many who have followed her career and the obstacles she has had to overcome.
She continued to speak out about gender equality in coaching, emphasizing the systemic issues that often see less qualified men being given opportunities over highly capable women.
“I will be speaking up. For the women and girls who prove their value and it’s still not enough. Against the notion of the less qualified man getting put in positions over the more qualified woman. For the guidance I received from a mentor: You can always right a wrong,” Freeman stated.
Her remarks come shortly after she stepped down from her role with USATF, marking the end of a successful tenure. In an emotional farewell message, she reflected on the lessons she learned and the impact she had on the athletes she worked with.
“My time as the USATF Head Women’s Relays Coach has come to an end. Thank you to my family and to those who believed in me,” she shared.
“Thank you, Lord, for choosing me to show the world how to WIN against it all. To the athletes, keep making history and much love.”
Freeman’s influence on the sport extends beyond coaching. As a former elite athlete, she was part of Team USA’s women’s 4x100m relay team at the 2008 Olympic Games and played a key role in winning a gold medal at the World Championships. She also secured two silver medals at the 2007 Pan American Games.
Her journey reflects the challenges faced by many women in sports, particularly in leadership roles. By speaking out about her experiences, Freeman continues to inspire the next generation of female coaches and athletes, proving that perseverance and talent can break through barriers.
