Wisconsin Rapids (OnFocus) – A pair of Columbus Dons, Andrew Scheer and Isaac Scheer, qualified for the WIAA State Cross Country Meet.
We caught up with Dons’ Head Cross Country Coach Danielle Wojcik to learn a bit about their trip to state and the efforts that made it all happen.
What have been the keys for your athletes’ and team’s successful journey to state?
Talking about truly holding yourself accountable for each race and practice. Writing out their goals has placed value on repeats, dynamic stretches, core exercises, and strengthening activities. Plus, form follows function–your teammates know your weakness and will support you through the ugliest moments because they believe in you.
How are you approaching practice this week as you prepare for the state meet?
This week’s practice has been about light-hearted variety. State adventures earn a unique Small & Mighty bike ride scavenger hunt, tag team tempo/speed workouts, extra hurdle walks to stay relaxed, and teammates clustering turns to relieve crowded running happenstances on the state course.
How has fan support been important for your team’s runners this year?
The camaraderie gained from school to school support is inspiring. Watching harriers’ banter throughout meets and encourage each other is remarkable and a valuable transferable life skill. Our parents have been pricelessly awesome; they are always sharing refueling snacks and endlessly cheering – for all harriers! Plus, who else can say Sasquatch is on their team 🙂
What do you see as the keys to be successful at The Ridges on Saturday?
Channeling the amped up adrenaline and tunneling crowds to our fullest advantage. When your body is tired, it is important to remember their support is echoing … breathe, relax the T-Rex arms, get those knees up, no criss cross applesauce, and swing faster. Everyone can stop and relish the State cross country experience whether a competing harrier, cheering spectator, delighted coach, or official.
Cross Country Links:
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Author: David Keech
David Keech is a retired teacher and works as a sportswriter, sports official and as an educational consultant. He has reported on amateur sports since 2011, known as 'KeechDaVoice.' David can be reached at [email protected]
