Rams Set Training to Begin Second Half Sturdy

FORT COLLINS – Colorado State’s ladies’s swimming and diving crew will journey south to Flagstaff, Ariz., to face Northern Arizona on  Jan. 5 earlier than touring residence to compete in a double twin in opposition to Air Force and New Mexico on Jan 10, at Air Force. With two high-caliber opponents and back-to-back opponents at altitude, the upcoming meets symbolize a pivotal second within the Rams season.

This journey marks an essential turning level for the Rams’ season as they return from winter break and enter the center of Mountain West competitors. Opening the week at Northern Arizona earlier than dealing with Air Force and New Mexico creates a demanding atmosphere, with altitude and convention familiarity including depth to every race. The Rams embrace the problem as a possibility to sharpen execution, construct momentum, and set the tone for the second half of the season.

To assist put together for the demanding stretch, the Rams will journey to Arizona early, spending time in Phoenix starting to coach, accumulate, and reap the benefits of long-course coaching periods which are restricted through the common season. The early arrival permits the crew to get race-specific preparation with out the strain of a decent journey schedule, guaranteeing the Rams are available prepared, centered, and decided to compete in opposition to NAU.

“We are going down to Phoenix on Jan.2 just to get some sunshine, get outside, and train,” coach Christopher Woodard stated. “It allows us to take advantage of long-course training, which we only get a few times a year, and it helps us not feel rushed into the meet with NAU. Right now, it’s about discipline, attention to detail, and making sure when we come back together, we are focused and ready to roll.”

The Rams carry robust momentum from their efficiency on the Phill Hansel Invitational, the place they set faculty information, posted top-10 program marks, and showcased depth throughout numerous occasions. The crew capped the meet with a press release victory within the 400-yard freestyle relay, setting a college report to shut the competitors on a excessive observe, main into the second half of the season. Woodard famous that whereas crew unity stays robust, the athletes are additionally centered on making their particular person influence.

“I think they feel really good about how we finished at the Phill Hansel Invitational, and that confidence comes from a strong team effort,” Woodard stated. “When they go home and then come back to travel, there’s a natural sense of jockeying for position. How do I make my mark on this team and make an impact? There’s a lot of team unity, but there’s also that individual focus of what do I need to do to be ready, especially with NAU coming up. “

Training emphasis has shifted to sharpening particular strengths throughout the roster. Sprint and stroke teams have elevated their concentrate on energy and repetition, with an added emphasis on stronger kicks whereas sustaining a constant tempo. The crew continues rebuilding endurance to organize for the calls for of the upcoming competitors.

The challenges forward prolong past the competitors itself. Both Northern Arizona and Air Force compete at two of the best elevation services within the nation, with each exceeding 7,000 toes, making a demanding atmosphere which exams endurance, restoration, and psychological toughness. Racing at altitude requires exact execution and disciplined pacing, making preparation and a spotlight to element crucial because the Rams face back-to-back meets in among the most bodily difficult settings in collegiate swimming and diving.

“That’s a big challenge,” Woodard stated. “Doing it back-to-back in the same week is tough. NAU has a long history of success, and Air Force looked good at midseason. We know we have to go in with pinpoint accuracy and a big-time attitude.”

Rams within the Mountain West Top 10

2. Tess Whineray 200 again, 1:53.36
3. Whineray 100 again, 52.48
6. Erin Dawson 500 free, 4:52.33
9. Margo Hauser 1650 free, 17:01.17
10. Hauser 1000 free, 10:09.81
10. Evie Munz 100 fly, 54.51