Temecula Valley High School Cross Country Season Preview

As the new cross-country season approaches, there is no doubt that Coach Gary Polhill and the team at Temecula Valley High School are ready to put all their hard work and training to the test. With the goal of reaching the State meet, this talented group of runners is determined to improve upon their performance from last year's CIF finals. The team's top returning players from last season include all-league runners Rachel Thamer, Natalia Calipari, and Hally Murphy. These three athletes have proven themselves on the track and possess incredible speed, agility, and stamina. They have also shown strong leadership qualities both on and off the field, making them invaluable assets to the team. Coach Polhill notes that "their dedication and hard work serve as an inspiration to their teammates and will surely contribute to the team's success this year." In addition to the returning players, there are also some new faces who are expected to make an immediate impact on the team. Sophomore Ana Arias, junior Izzy Chisholm, and senior Heidi Manson are all highly talented and motivated individuals who are ready to take their place among the top runners in the league. They have shown great potential during training and have already made a positive impression on the coaching staff. When it comes to selecting team captains, Coach Polhill believes that leadership by example is the most important quality. The team captains are responsible for setting the tone and leading by example both on and off the track. Currently, sophomore Ana Arias, junior Izzy Chisholm, and senior Heidi Manson are battling for the role of team captain. All three athletes possess the necessary qualities of a good leader and are highly respected by their teammates. Creating team chemistry and camaraderie is crucial for any successful team. Coach Polhill understands the importance of building a strong bond between the team members and emphasizes this during their summer training, particularly during their team Big Bear running camp. This not only allows the team to get to know and support each other but also creates a sense of unity and determination towards achieving their common goal. To motivate his players to push themselves to their full potential, Coach Polhill has developed a training program that focuses on both physical and mental strength. He believes that cross country is at least 50% mental, making it essential for any great team. The team also sets high standards and encourages each other to strive for excellence, creating a supportive and competitive environment.