Cross Country 2012

    Over the summer I was asked if I would be willing to be the Cross Country coach for my High School Alma Mater, The Willows Academy.  I was thrilled with the prospect but so nervous to say yes considering the sport didn't even exist at our school until after I left and I am a long distance runner.  I think I have run 1 official 5K, and training for a 5K and speed is totally different than running long distance but I agreed despite my reservations.
  
    It ended up being the most amazing season ever!  The first few summer workouts saw 11 girls, slowly once school started the team grew to 18 girls, which is the highest number to ever participate in Cross Country.  I was thrilled! 

   As a runner, I have learned the importance of strength training and conditioning as well as the importance of a variety of workouts so as to fight off boredom.  We did things like the Deck of Cards workout (see my post on that amazing workout), long runs, speed workouts with hills, 1/2mile repeats, fartleks, Indian runs,  Ladders, Friday Fun runs, Mile repeats, conditioning, etc. 

   It was incredible to watch the girls meet their goals and then have to set new goals for the season to continue to challenge themselves.  We made it to Sectionals as a team and then had an individual qualify for State.  They all worked so hard throughout the season and I am so proud of each and every one of them. 

    Just a few fun pictures from the season!



Fun Run Friday - Tie Dye Day

Maine East Race - 6 out of 9 runners received Medals!

We like our Bling!!!

Fun Run Friday - Neon Day

Excited for our 2nd place trophy despite the pouring rain!

After running Regionals...

Fun Run Friday - Halloween

Bring on Sectionals

After Sectionals while waiting to see if anyone is heading to state!

Julie is going to State!!!

So proud of her finish at state...19:58 - fastest time all season!