When people talk about impactful leaders in collegiate sports, the name Augie Martinez Lehigh often comes up. Known for his strong leadership and dedication, Augie has helped shape the lives of student-athletes both on and off the track. As the head coach for Lehigh University’s cross country and track & field teams, he’s built a legacy rooted in mentorship, resilience, and community support.
Coach Augie isn’t just a coach—he’s a mentor, a motivator, and a true visionary. His approach combines athletics with academic achievement and personal development, making a difference that goes beyond trophies or records. Let’s explore how his journey at Lehigh became a model for holistic coaching and transformational leadership.
Augie Martinez: Early Life and Path to Coaching
Augie Martinez’s story begins with humble roots. Growing up in a working-class family with strong Peruvian heritage, he learned early the values of hard work and perseverance. These values helped shape his approach to life and later, his coaching philosophy. His early love for sports became the foundation for a career that blends athletics with deeper life lessons.
Before arriving at Lehigh University, Augie spent years honing his skills across different coaching levels. He was a passionate athlete himself, but his real calling came in guiding others. His time with youth track teams and high school programs helped him understand that coaching wasn’t just about performance—it was about people. That belief stuck with him.
He also earned multiple coaching certifications and invested time in learning about leadership, psychology, and community building. This mix of education and real-world experience gave him the tools to become the well-rounded coach he is today. His rise wasn’t fast, but it was steady—and always focused on purpose.
What set him apart even early on was his focus on balance. He didn’t just train athletes; he helped shape future leaders. That commitment stayed with him when he joined Lehigh University, ready to create something lasting.
Coaching Career at Lehigh University
Augie Martinez joined Lehigh University athletics with a clear goal: to lead with heart and purpose. As the head of the cross country and track & field programs, he quickly became a guiding force. But his impact wasn’t limited to sports. He built a culture based on academic-athletic synergy, leadership, and resilience.
He brought a holistic coaching philosophy to Lehigh. That meant more than running faster or jumping farther. It meant helping students grow through teamwork, discipline, and goal setting. Under his leadership, Lehigh athletes not only improved their athletic records—they began winning academic honors and leadership awards.
Augie also emphasized diversity and inclusion advocacy. He worked with Lehigh’s Athletics Diversity Task Force to ensure all athletes felt welcomed and empowered. His efforts to support underserved communities earned respect far beyond the campus. He often reminded students that “every race is about more than a finish line—it’s about who you become along the way.”
One of his major achievements was building strong community partnerships. From local school outreach to nonprofit events, his athletes learned that giving back is just as important as winning. These real-world lessons shaped his students into better athletes—and better people.
His leadership wasn’t just about the now. Augie made sure every program and initiative was sustainable, building a foundation that could grow for years to come.
Coaching Philosophy and Leadership Style
At the heart of Augie Martinez’s success is a powerful and personal coaching style. His approach is often described as transformational leadership, and for good reason. He doesn’t just coach athletes—he helps them grow into their best selves, both mentally and physically.
Augie believes in setting high standards but offers support every step of the way. He uses real conversations, trust, and empathy to bring out the best in his team. Many of his former athletes say he helped them believe in themselves long before they saw success on the track.
His coaching style also includes strong focus on data-driven athlete development. While his warmth and motivation are clear, Augie is also practical. He studies training regimens, adjusts techniques, and uses performance stats to make smart choices. He mixes emotion and logic—a balance that few coaches master.
He is a firm believer in balancing academics and athletics. His programs make sure athletes never have to sacrifice their studies for sports. With his help, many athletes go on to become Academic All-Americans and leaders in their fields.
Augie also invests in team-building workshops and leadership seminars. These sessions give athletes skills they can use beyond the field—like communication, time management, and goal setting. He builds champions, but more importantly, he builds people of character.
Above all, he leads with integrity. Whether it’s during a tough loss or a big win, Augie always acts with grace and purpose, making him one of the most respected figures in college sports.
Impact on Students and Community
Coach Augie’s impact goes far beyond the university grounds. His work has touched the lives of countless students, families, and community members. One of his biggest passions is creating opportunities for underserved youth. Through mentorship programs and community development initiatives, he connects with kids who often feel left out.
Augie has led student-athletes in volunteering with local schools and nonprofits. Whether it’s hosting track clinics or tutoring sessions, his team is always involved in giving back. These experiences help students understand the value of service—and create bonds that last long after graduation.
He’s also played a key role in raising funds for scholarships and sustainable community projects. These efforts help remove financial barriers for student-athletes and offer new chances for kids in the neighborhood. His leadership helps everyone, not just those wearing a Lehigh jersey.
Mental health advocacy is another part of his mission. Augie promotes open discussions about stress, anxiety, and self-care. He wants every athlete to know it’s okay to ask for help. His efforts create a safe space where students feel supported, inside and outside their sport.
Real-life stories highlight his influence. Many former athletes credit him with helping them through tough times, both personal and academic. His words of encouragement often make the difference between giving up and pushing forward.
By building bridges between athletics, academics, and community service, Augie proves that sports can be a powerful tool for change.
Vision for the Future
As Coach Augie looks ahead, his vision remains bold and inspiring. He isn’t slowing down—he’s leveling up. His future goals include expanding entrepreneurial ventures linked to athletics, launching new leadership programs, and growing Lehigh’s impact on a national scale.
He hopes to build even stronger links between Lehigh and local business partnerships. This will give student-athletes access to internships, mentorships, and real-world experience while still in school. For Augie, it’s about preparing students for life after graduation.
He’s also planning to increase Lehigh’s presence in NCAA coaching networks. Sharing his success model with other schools could help bring change across the country. By hosting coaching clinics and educational events, he’s aiming to raise the standard in collegiate sports leadership.
Augie is also working to secure more support for student-athlete development. That includes scholarships, mental health services, and career planning. His goal is to give every student the tools to succeed—no matter their background.
One exciting idea on the table is a leadership summit for student-athletes. Augie wants to create a space where young leaders can learn from coaches, alumni, and business professionals. It’s just one of many steps he’s taking to leave a lasting legacy.
Whether it’s on the track or in the classroom, Coach Augie Martinez is creating a blueprint for how sports can change lives—and how one person can make all the difference.