Student leadership, family atmosphere, athlete commitment to team concept
What would be the best way to describe your style and philosophy of coaching and working with high school runners?
Our philosophy is that sport is a microcosm of life... there will be challenges and failures along the way, but it is essential that you maintain focus and optimism regardless of your circumstances. We want athletes to develop the values and character that will carry them through life.
What are your core beliefs in your training plan and workouts for your cross country squads?
We develop a long-view training plan for the season that focuses on the continual development of the athlete through the course of the season. But we also re-evaluate that plan each week to make adjustments based on athlete performance and need.
How many runners do you return from your top 7 from a year ago?
5
Who is your projected top 7 heading into the cross country season?
Abby Baggott, Lindsey Baxter, Baleigh Davis, Nicole Davis, Maggie Schuler, Emma Sibley, Darilyn Wilcox
Who are your team captains or leaders and what stands out about them as examples for the rest of their teammates?
We do not name team captains until the end of the season, as we emphasize leadership is a shared responsibility. We do rely on our seniors to establish the tone and culture of the team, but all members of the team should take the opportunity to demonstrate leadership when it is needed.
Who have you been most impressed or surprised with their improvement and/or fitness from their summer training?
Abby Baggott and Maggie Schuler have demonstrated great commitment to their summer training.
Any impactful freshmen or transfers to join the team this season?
Remains to be seen.
What are the top invitational meets that your team will be attending this season?
Challenge of Champions
What will be the biggest reason why your team is successful this season?
Commitment of team members to do the right thing all the time, not just when it is convenient.
What will be the biggest obstacle or challenge facing your team this season?
As with all teams, maintaining a strong team culture despite the challenges provided by COVID-19.
What is a favorite annual or common pre-season workout or run for your team?
2 mile time trial to determine training groups.
What is a favorite annual or common mid-season workout for your team?
Our big 400 workout... high quantity, short recovery.
What is a favorite annual or common championship season or end-of-season workout for your team?
Our final workout with our seniors.
What are your top 3 goals for this year's squad?
Overcome challenges and doubt to maintain a positive team culture, focus on daily improvement at practice, continue to establish our program as one of the most competitive teams in the state
How has the Covid-19 outbreak affected your team in preparation for the 2020 XC Season?
Despite our best efforts to focus on one day at a time, it is hard to ignore the uncertainty related to the COVID-19 pandemic.