The Colleyville Heritage High School cross country team is preparing for an exciting and challenging 2025 season under the leadership of Head Coach Nick Taylor. With a focus on endurance, speed, and mental toughness, the team is dedicated to building on past successes while integrating new talent into the lineup.
Offseason Focus: Building Speed and Endurance
During the offseason, the team has been actively competing as the distance group for the track team, emphasizing multi-paced workouts and individual racing tactics. This year-round commitment aims to enhance aerobic capacity and sprinting speed, ensuring that athletes are well-prepared for the cross country season.
Special Offseason Events: Training Camp with a Rival
A key component of team development will be attending the Top Tier Training Camp in Caldwell, Texas, from June 9th to 13th. The camp, held alongside College Station High School—a top 5A rival—provides an opportunity for runners to learn from experienced coach Ondrasek while fostering team bonding through daily challenges and cooperative activities.
Roster Changes: Replacing Key Contributors
The team faces the tough challenge of replacing four graduating seniors—Wallace Bullock, Caleb Taylor, Luis Garcia, and Dylan Beckmann—who played crucial roles in last year’s regional runner-up and state-qualifying team. Additionally, Junior All-Region runner Thomas Tran will not return, making way for younger athletes to step up.
Players to Watch: Young Runners Ready to Shine
Despite the departures, the team boasts a group of rising athletes poised for breakout seasons:
Jeriel Campos, Michael Steinkamp, Charles Garner, Blin Berisha, Sammy Czyz, and Jackson Callihan have all showcased strong performances, running well under 11 minutes for the 3200m in track season.
With hard work and team unity, these young runners have the potential to lead Colleyville Heritage to another successful season.
Unique Training Methods: Team Bonding Beyond Running
In addition to standard strength training and core routines, the team incorporates unique team-building activities:
Pool party runs: Once a week during the summer, athletes meet at a teammate’s house for a second run, followed by a pool party and dinner.
Goal-setting meetings: At one of these gatherings, runners share their personal and team goals, helping create accountability and motivation.
Logbook sessions: Twice a week, the team meets to discuss training tips, nutrition, motivation, and self-care. Athletes write notes in journals—without using electronic devices—to encourage focus and communication.
Nutrition: Fueling Performance
While there are no strict dietary restrictions, athletes are encouraged to minimize processed foods and excess sugar. The coaching staff emphasizes the importance of balanced nutrition, hydration, and micronutrient intake to support the high energy demands of endurance running.
Coaching Perspective: Continuous Growth
Coach Taylor remains committed to professional development, frequently researching best practices and networking with other coaches. Assistant Coach Amanda McCready is furthering her expertise by earning her USATF Level 2 certification, ensuring that the coaching staff continues to refine training techniques and strategies.
Fan Engagement & Community Impact
The team prioritizes strong communication with parents and supporters. Weekly information flyers highlight team achievements and updates, while athletes are encouraged to keep their families informed about their progress and goals.
Challenges Ahead: Overcoming Mental Barriers
The biggest obstacle for the 2025 season will be mental toughness as younger runners step into varsity roles. Losing five state-level competitors is no easy feat, but with a dedicated and motivated roster, the team is determined to meet the challenge head-on.
Final Thoughts
With a strong culture of dedication, development, and camaraderie, Colleyville Heritage High School’s cross country team is ready to tackle the new season. As they embrace their youth movement and push their limits, expect these Panthers to make a statement on the course in 2025.
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