Episode 93 - Coach Elena Schrader; Head Cross Country and Girls Track at Volcano Vista, 5A State Cross Country Champions

This week I had the pleasure to talk with Coach Elena Schrader. She is the head cross country and girls track coach at Volcano Vista High School. This year her boys and girls teams both won the 5A State Cross Country Championship.

We start off talking about her start in running, continuing through high school and college, and how she got into coaching. Some coaching will tell you they fell into coaching, but Coach Schrader really fell into it.

We don't go into a lot of detail, but she talks about taking the time to educate herself in coaching, taking USATF training among other things.

She talks about the last cross country and track season and when she knew she had something special with the boys. She then talks about the surprise with the girls and getting to watch both teams really grow into their own this year. It was fun to hear her talk about her excitement in both coaching and teaching.

It was a lot of fun talking with Coach Schrader and getting to know her. She is someone that is easy to root for and you know her teams are having fun while competing at a high level in the state. I hope you enjoy our conversation and also have fun getting to know this amazing coach.

With the holiday season upon us, it is easy to get into the rut of preparing for the holidays without taking the time to think about their meanings. Whatever the holidays mean for you, I hope you are able to find time for yourself on your runs and time for your family. Stay focused, stay warm, and keep running, New Mexico.