By David Thornton
The biggest comment with the track and field and cross-country teams was “What are we doing next?” Jill Lancaster, head coach of the track and field and cross country teams, said.
Lancaster said she reminded her team that this delay does not change their goals on being the best athletes they can be. The training cycle will change. “We are a youthful team, and in all honesty, these training cycles will pay off for them,” she said.
Lancaster said when the news came around to everyone, “communication was excellent.” She appreciated how the GAC and the athletic department dealt with this issue quickly. “Looking out for our student athletes is superb. And our communication is excellent here at [Northwestern],” she said.
“You have a purpose,” she said to her team. Personal growth from her athletes is what she is mostly focused on during this time. “Seeing maturity and growth is important,” she said.
Every athlete knew what was possible, and when the season was delayed, it hurt the athletes, she said.
“It sucks, but it’s necessary,” said Alexa Leyva, a track runner and political science major. Leyva was disappointed by the news, but understood the decision was made to keep students safe.
However, Leyva is happy to be on campus.
“I’d much rather be in class, too many distractions for me if it was online back home,” Leyva said.
Even with the delay, Leyva has high expectations for herself this season. “I do look forward to the season and the opportunities I have to be a better athlete. Especially in long jump,” Leyva said.
