FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (August 20, 2018) – On Monday morning the men's and women's cross country began the 2018 season with their first team practices at Lumberjack Stadium. The team started the year off by focusing on the mechanics, movements and details of stretching to make sure they had the basics down.
When asked about the importance of active isolated flexibility training mechanics on day one NAU assistant coach Becca DeLoache said, "Day one we want to get them here and make sure that we're focusing on mobility, economy, and making sure that the body is moving right before we jump into having them just run. This helps to prevent injuries and run more efficiently. Working on those basics helps to build a foundation before we get into anything else."
The expectations are high for both the men's and women's program this year. NAU Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Mike Marlow also had high praise for the athletes when he spoke to them about the beginning of the season. "They're trendsetters. They have set the bar for all of us in NAU Athletics in many ways. I think it allows us reality when we have visions of grandeur and are able to succeed at an extremely high level," Marlow said.
Director of Cross Country and Track & Field Michael Smith focused on the little things throughout practice. Making a point to ensure that the athletes knew that even the most minor details, especially when it comes to stretching before practice or an event, were just as important as the run itself.
The runners' themselves were in very high spirits and excited to get the season started. The energy surrounding the practice was one of focus and determination. The purpose of both teams this year is devoted to growth as individuals and as a team. The first practice signified this greatly with returning runners assisting newcomers and everyone having a positive attitude towards what was being taught.
The cross country team's first event is right here in Flagstaff, Ariz., at the George Kyte Classic on Saturday, September 1 at Buffalo Park.
