Laurie McElroy, better known as Coach Mac to her athletes, comes to Austin Pole Vault & Throws after spending 20 years at the collegiate level including the University of North Texas, the University of Chicago, Texas State University, and Concordia University Chicago. During her tenure, McElroy coached 4 NCAA National Champions (400H x 2, 800m, and Pole Vault) and numerous school record holders.

“I am very excited about the opportunity to help develop high school/middle school athletes to their full potential. I hope to help make an immediate impact working with hurdles, sprints/relays, and jumps. Austin Pole & Throws is an exceptional club with the best facilities in the Austin area. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue that tradition.”

McElroy is a USATF Level II Certified coach in Sprints/Hurdles/Relays, Jumps, and Combined Events as well as a Certified USATF Teacher. As an athlete, McElroy competed at the University of Texas specializing in the 400-meter hurdles and the high jump. She also trained as a heptathlete and was a nationally ranked power lifter.

McElroy earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology (1997) and a Master of Education with a specialization in Exercise Science and Sports Nutrition (1999) from the University of Texas.