Tuesday, February 26, 2008

CASCADE COLLEGE: Where everyone matters.

When it comes time to decide where you want to run there are so many things to consider that it can be overwhelming for a lot of people. When narrowing your choices consider the following:

1) Is there an academic program that fits your goals?
2) Do you connect with the coach and other members of the team?
3) What will your role be in the program...will you contribute right away?
4) Do you MATTER to the school?

At Cascade EVERYONE matters.

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

CASCADE TRACK & FIELD: SMALL SCHOOL, BIG PLANS.

People ask me all the time about my coaching philosophy and I can sum it up in two words..."WHY NOT?" In life you will constantly run into the naysayers and who want to tell you what you CAN'T do...I say "WHY NOT?" Why can't we be the best program in our conference...why not the best program in the country? Why can't our athletes become champions...or even OLYMPIANS? You'll never give me a satisfactory reason when I ask that question, because the fact is...WE CAN achieve those sorts of goals...and I believe that we ABSOLUTELY WILL!!!

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

CASCADE COLLEGE: SUCCESS IN TRACK AND FIELD

I love the spring season...Track & field is a truly unique athletic endeavor where ANY athlete, regardless of their physical make-up or background, can be successful. In order to be successful the athlete must be willing to put in the time. . . time to learn their event; time to train; time to eat, sleep and recover; time before and after school; time on weekends; and sometimes, time away from other interests. Successful track & field athletes understand that you can’t change the basic condition of the body overnight but rather with consistent intelligent training. LET'S PLAY SOME TRACK!!!

Monday, February 11, 2008

New to Distance Running? Some Things to Consider.

A normal consequence of beginning to train for the first time is muscle soreness. This will soon go away, however, if an athlete has not participated in sports before this may persist for a couple weeks. Athletes should communicate this to the coaches so we can adjust the training. Any athlete engaged in intensive training and competition is subject to injury. We can prevent most injuries when our athletes tell us about their aches and pains before they become disabling.


Nutritional Considerations:
A nutritious, well-balanced diet is essential for every athlete. Especially on competition days, fatty and fried foods, and carbonated or acidic drinks should be avoided. Small portions of easily digested foods eaten at least 3 hours before competition are best. Water intake should plentiful. Most runners crave carbohydrates, since this is the primary fuel for endurance events such as distance running. Athletes should always have a water bottle and energy bar in their training bag to avoid being caught without necessary calories or hydration.


How to buy running shoes and equipment:
I recommend buying shoes at a technical running store that deals primarily with running/training apparel. These stores have experienced athletes as sales people who can help you choose the right shoe with the right fit. For many beginning athletes a well fit pair of “training” shoes will meet all training and competition needs, although some runners may want to use racing “flats”.

The best way to prolong the life and function of a new pair of shoes is to wear them for training only. Loose fitting T-shirts and running shorts are adequate for daily training. On especially hot days, athletes may prefer to wear “technical” training apparel specifically designed for sporting activity. This is the option of each athlete.

Happy running!

Wednesday, February 6, 2008

Cascade College XC: Our Philosophy

Whatever the reason an individual chooses to be part of our program we will provide an environment in which their experience is first-rate and their goals are supported. While respecting the individual reasons for team membership we will also work diligently to forge a deep sense of team unity in pursuit of a common goal. We believe that goals such as Conference and National Championships are attainable and worthy of the time we invest to pursue them. It is our hope that the time that we spend together in the Cross Country program will teach our athletes to expect more from themselves than they thought they could achieve and instill in them the discipline and confidence to excel in endeavors beyond athletics.