Coaching Perspective

At Senators Elite Speed, we pride ourselves on a coaching team that blends  athletic achievements with a passionate commitment to nurturing young talent. Our coaches are the backbone of our track and field family, embodying the spirit of dedication, resilience, and excellence. Get to know the exceptional individuals who stand at the helm of our coaching team. 

Discover the Heartbeat of Our Team

At Senators Elite Speed, we pride ourselves on a coaching team that blends world-class athletic achievements with a passionate commitment to nurturing young talent. Our coaches are the backbone of our track and field family, embodying the spirit of dedication, resilience, and excellence. Get to know the exceptional individuals who stand at the helm of our coaching team. 

Coach Yon

Coach Yon

Yonathan "Yon" Asmerom

Yonathan Asmerom, known to friends and family as Yon, is a former standout track athlete, originally from Eritrea and grew up in San Francisco. He got his start in running at McAteer High School in San Francisco under coach Marc Christensen where he became a dominant force  by winning seven All-City championships, the most ever by a San Francisco high school runner. His achievements earned him induction into the San Francisco Prep Hall of Fame on June 1, 2024. During the summers, Yon ran for the  Senators under legendary coach Walter Smith, where he quickly made his mark—finishing third in the 1500m and helping lead the 4x800m relay team to a second-place finish at the 1995 Junior Olympics. Yon went on to compete at City College of San Francisco, under coach Adam Lucarelli then transferred to UC Berkeley, where he ran on the track team under coach Tony Sandoval. After graduating, he pursued a career in aviation and is now a Boeing 747 captain, flying internationally. Despite his career in the skies, Yon’s heart remains on the track. His lifelong passion for track and field continues to fuel his commitment to mentoring and developing young athletes, helping them reach the highest levels of competition in the country. 

Junior Olympics and Beyond

His summer pursuits with the Senators under Coach Walter Smith saw him clinch crucial victories, notably a third-place finish in the 1500m and a vital role in securing a second-place finish for the 4x800m relay team at the 1995 Junior Olympics. His trajectory continued upwards, with competitive stints at the City College of San Francisco followed by UC Berkeley, underlining his status as a formidable athlete. 

From the Track to the Skies

After graduation, Coach Yon embraced the skies, soaring to heights as a Boeing 747 captain. Yet, his heart never left the track. Today, he channels his extensive experience and passion for athletics into mentoring the next generation, guiding them towards national and international success. 

Coach Zo

Coach Zo

Zotunde "Zo" Morton

Zo Morton was born and raised in San Francisco, where he emerged as a standout athlete competing for McAteer High School after transferring from Riordan High School and the Senators under legendary coach Walter Smith. Known for his grit and consistency, Zo was a top-3 finisher in both the 800m and the 4x800m relay, earning a reputation as a fierce competitor and dependable teammate. Today, Zo brings that same passion and dedication to his role as an Elementary Specialist with Oakland Goes Outdoors, where he helps young students connect with nature and physical activity. His invaluable skills working with youth make him a powerful and deeply valued part of Senators Speed Elite, helping to shape the next generation of student-athletes with care, patience, and purpose.

A Mentor Beyond the Track

Aside from his accomplishments with the Senators under the legendary guidance of Coach Walter Smith, today, Coach Zo invests his time and skills as an Elementary Specialist with Oakland Goes Outdoors, bridging the gap between young students and the world of outdoor activity and fitness. His approach to coaching at Senators Elite Speed is deeply influenced by his work, emphasizing the development of young athletes with patience, purpose, and a deep understanding of their unique potential. 

Join Us: Where Champions Are Forged

Under the stewardship of Coach Yon and Coach Zo, Senators Elite Speed is more than a team; it’s a proving ground for champions in the making. Our coaches’ unparalleled track records and dedication to athlete development form the cornerstone of our philosophy: to nurture talent, instill discipline, and achieve greatness, both on the track and in life.

Embark on your journey to athletic excellence with us, and let our coaches lead you every step of the way.