It's pretty remarkable actually when you stop to think about what teens can do when motivated and properly channeled. Seems like sometimes that the stereotypical teen -- you know, the monosyllabic grunting sleeping in wanna-be -- is cast to describe ALL teens. But it ain't true. Hang with some cross country runners you'll be inspired -- these aren't the stereotype. Hang with this group in Mammoth and you'll really be inspired.
Today our group covered nearly 12 miles in two workouts, spent 30 minutes learning a fairly demanding yoga routine, cooperated to prepare and consume three meals together and all with a "can-do"attitude. I say again, it's remarkable!
Our afternoon jaunt took us up to a bluff overlooking town, far too steep for the first mile if you ask me, but a wonderful challenge rewarded by stunning views of the caldera and Mammoth Mtn. Down thru the woods we meandered, finishing with yoga at the park, then to Mammoth Creek for a cooooold stand in the river to ice down the legs. All told, we were on task with our workout for almost 3 hours. Not a complaint. Not a "are we done yet?" Gamers, all of them.
It's a luxury of Mammoth ... having the time to be able to train right. The time to take care of all parts of the body in a concentrated week. From the mind, to the legs, to stretching and yoga, to the biting cold of icing tired limbs, competitive running is a full-body endeavor and only those who discipline the whole enchilada will find success.
Today, I feel we did that. 29 teenagers. 12 miles. 30 minutes of yoga. 5 minutes in a cold river. Pretty remarkable, indeed.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Not Your Average Teenagers
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Remarkable, indeed, Coach. What you said about the typical teen is so true...most of us, even teachers, fall into stereotyping them as lazy do-nothings. Hearing of your first couple of days in Mammouth really reminds us all of what teenagers can do when challenged, when their better natures are appealed to. Such "handling" requires great skill and dedication, qualities you have in abundance. Thank you for pushing--and caring about--our kids. They are wonderful and so is the MLK cc coaching staff!
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