Gilles Frenette serves as the Head Coach for Boys Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field and Cross Country at Apex High School, bringing an elite international background and a global perspective to the program. Originally from Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, Coach Frenette competed in track and field at the high school, collegiate, and professional levels, representing Université Laval and later competing professionally with New Balance. He was a provincial champion in multiple middle- and long-distance events and went on to become a Canadian national champion in the 2000m steeplechase. He continues to compete internationally in Masters track and field, including appearances at World Masters Championships. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Université Laval and a graduate degree in Emergency Management, along with multiple coaching certifications.

Coach Frenette was drawn to coaching as a way to give back to a sport that provided him discipline, opportunity, and life-changing experiences. His coaching philosophy focuses on developing the complete athlete—not just faster times. He emphasizes confidence, ownership, and understanding the why behind training, helping athletes take responsibility for their goals while building pride through consistent effort and progress. Strong relationships, clear communication, and a growth mindset form the foundation of his team culture, with setbacks viewed as lessons rather than failures.

Coaching at Apex has been a rewarding experience for Coach Frenette, highlighted by strong support from the athletic department and the visible growth of student-athletes as competitors and young people. One of his greatest joys is seeing every athlete—regardless of ability—come to practice excited, motivated, and proud to be part of the team. Outside of coaching, he enjoys playing video games, reading historical fiction, and traveling. A fun fact—during his teenage years, he was known to dye a strand of his hair platinum blond and wear sunglasses at night during track meets.