MENLO SCHOOL • SINCE 1915

John Dagata

Upper School Athletics

Athletics Program Director for Cross Country, Track & Field Coach

Biography

A former Olympic Trials qualifier and collegiate team captain, I bring decades of elite coaching experience, having had the privilege of developing Olympic, World, and NCAA champions.

From 2016–2023, I served as a national coach and Director of Operations at the USA Track & Field Olympic Training Center, where I coached an Olympic gold medalist and multiple national champions. My collegiate coaching career has included roles at UC Berkeley, Iowa State, UC Santa Barbara, and the University of Oklahoma, where I specialized in throws, jumps, multi-events, and operations.

Internationally, I’ve also held key coaching positions with Great Britain, China, and Welsh Athletics, including during the London 2012 Olympics and the Commonwealth Games.

I believe in a team-first philosophy rooted in discipline, character, and long-term growth. I hold advanced certifications and am currently pursuing a Master’s in Strength, Conditioning & Coaching Practice.

As Menlo Athletics Director Earl Koberlein shared, my global experience and passion for athlete development will help elevate our programs and inspire our student-athletes. I look forward to bringing that energy to Menlo and working with our teams to help them thrive both on and off the track.