Support Coach Weir

Robert was a huge part of the reason that I chose to come to Stanford. When he recruited me as a high school senior, his enthusiasm for Stanford athletics, and the university in general was absolutely contagious. When I came to Stanford and ultimately decided not to be a part of the track team, Robert couldn’t possibly have been more understanding or supportive. Now as a senior, he and I remain close: He is a mentor, a family friend, and a man who represents the very best of Stanford University.

Carly Anderson, Friend and former thrower

When I think of Coach Weir, I think of him peering down at me and saying, “Hello bag lady!”. Ever since I left my backpack in the athletic training room my first year at Stanford and Coach Weir had to unlock it for me after hours, I was forever branded with this nickname. And although it is possible for us to have hardly interacted since we were part of completely separate spheres of the track team (Me being a female distance runner, and him being the head men’s track coach and coaching throws) he always found ways to encourage me and make me feel welcome on the team. As a team captain later on in my career, I saw first hand the long hours and all the behind-the-scenes work that went into being a Stanford track coach, in addition to the hands on coaching out at practice everyday. Even now when I return to Stanford, the sight of Coach Weir reminds me of an exciting time when I was encouraged at Stanford to take my running ability to its highest, because he was such an integral part of that, not because I was one of “his athletes”, but because it was his nature to find a way to connect with even the little freshman distance girls. Even if it was by calling me “bag lady” Thanks Coach!

Sara Bei Hall, Former Stanford runner

My memories of being on the Stanford Track team are filled with triumph, hard work, friendships and growth. Coach Weir was a huge part of the Stanford Track and Field family and my experience on the team. He was the bright spot,. the one who lightened everyone up with his accent and funny quotes. Although Robert looks and sounds intimidating with his stature and thick accent, he is actually the biggest teddy bear inside, always willing to listen and show support of his athletes.

Robert provided great leadership and direction to our team and I’m sorry to hear he has been asked to leave. My thoughts are with him and his family in hopes that something can be worked out.
Lindsay Hyatt Barr, Former Stanford runner