Coach Dede Gartrell is one of our veteran coaches for our Rainier Beach Track Club. Recruited to join the coaching staff by Coach Vic. “Coach Dede” is in her 30th consecutive year with the program. Dede’s tenure with the club started with the infamous Fleas ages, 5 & 6. Their energy keeps Dede on her toes! She has worked with youth in greater Seattle community for almost 33 years.

Dede graduated Lincoln High School (Seattle, WA.) in 1981. Her athletic accolades include an illustrious 4-year girls’ varsity basketball career with one of the most highly competitive teams in the state during that era. She also served as team captain for 2 consecutive years on the Track and Field team. Dede’s accomplishments include placing in state meets in the 200m and 400m events. She was also a member of the 4 X 100 and 4 x 400 relay teams. 

Coach Dede is currently employed at King County Superior Court. She has been working for King County Juvenile Court for 32 years. She is a long-time resident of South Seattle and attends First A.M.E. Church where she serves Chaplin of the Stewardess Board.

In her free time, she promotes concert and singers of all genres of music. Her greatest love is jazz music. Dede is a mother of twin 35-year-old daughters and a 28-year-old son. She is also a grandmother of a thirteen-year-old girl and 9-year-old boy. All three children and grandchildren are Rainier Beach Track and Field

alumni.