University of Houston Athletics
Cross Country Wraps Up Hot, Productive Training Camp
8/20/2010 12:00:00 AM | Cross Country
Aug. 20, 2010
HOUSTON - The University of Houston cross country team finished training camp in New Braunfels, Texas, on Friday afternoon.
After reporting back in Houston on Tuesday, the Cougars traveled nearly three hours away for three-straight days of training. Head coach Ryan Turner not only wanted to get his runners away from the gulf's humidity but also wanted to promote team bonding amongst returners and rookies. His men's and women's squads will welcome nine newcomers this fall.
"Camp is always an enjoyable experience for our student-athletes," Turner said. "It gives our returners an opportunity to get reacquainted and develop leadership skills. It gives me an opportunity to spend time with our younger student-athletes and help acclimate them with the transition from their high school training to college training."
Turner designed the camp, in part, as a reward for his team's dedication to the summer training program, as he is not allowed to mandate his student-athletes' workouts over the summer months. The reward was well received.
"I've really enjoyed meeting and spending time with our freshmen," said Erica Hannemann, senior women's team captain. "We have a lot of camp traditions, and its always fun to pass these along to our new teammates."
Team bonding wasn't the only focus during the Cougars' time in New Braunfels. The training ground provided an ideal workspace for conditioning and hill training. Turner used camp to lay the foundation and expectations for the upcoming season.
He was pleased with his team's effort and performance, while his team was happy to turn its attention on training.
"It's fun to spend time with teammates who I haven't seen for a couple months," said Anthony Jordan, junior men's team captain. "It's also nice to be able to focus on training without the pressure of juggling class and running."
The Cougars return to Houston to start regular-season training Monday, Aug. 23. Houston opens its schedule at home when the team hosts the annual Johnny Morriss UH Invitational on Friday, Sept. 3.
Players Mentioned
