This is like old Bowerman. All of these guys in one group are trying to make future US 5000 teams: Nur, Nico, Wolfe, Murphy, Woody (maybe), Strand (maybe). Iron sharpens iron, so they could all get very fit.
Seems a little crowded. Smith is used to coaching a bunch of kids at the same time but as adult pros, you would think that more individual attention is required for success. Especially taking on multiple athletes who are competing in the same event. Eventually some of this talent is going to feel as though they are not getting the individual attention they want or need to succeed. Especially as some start to succeed while others don't. I would guess that some of his NAU athletes naturally assume it's going to be a continuation of the success they had as collegians (Nur) while talents such as Wolfe and Strand may actually take quantum leaps with their new coach. ...Which could definitely introduce a new dynamic among Smith's athletes. How are Strand, Murphy, and Sahlman supposed find harmony among each other when they're trying to find success against Kessler, Hocker and Nuguse ....and only one of them might succeed? Same with Nur, Grijalva, Woody and Wolfe when Fisher and Young are virtual locks?? Seems like cannibalism among teammates is required to succeed.
At what point to the OGs of the group not running for Nike, get forced to sign with Nike or get pushed out? There may be a natural culling process.
This is great for Young (training fodder) and Luis (no trials for him), but may only be good for up to one other per event group.
Remember the cadre of college All American milers the farm team had? Most underachieved and only Lynn made teams. Will be interesting what happens to people like Liam where he’s overshadowed in both the shorter and longer stuff.