Coaches Corner 2023-2024

By: Hannah Wooters

Kathy Daniels-Track Coach

Kathy Daniels is this year's track coach for fruita 8/9. In a previous interview with Kathy Daniels, we spoke about what sport she will be coaching this year. “Track this year and I have previously coached volleyball and basketball too.” Kathy Daniels. I had also asked her why she chose to coach this sport and her reply was “I think track is a sport that has many options for kids to participate in  - running, jumping, hurdlers, discus shot put, high jump, long and triple jump and relays. I like that kids can work on being their best as an individual and also the relays with other team members.  I had coaches that promoted this sport for me and gave me support to be successful and I want to share that experience with others. Track can help you be a better athlete in other sports too. I ran track in high school at FMHS and held 4 school records in the 100 & 300 meter hurdles and 2 relays and placed in state all 3 years. I had track scholarships to run in college but decided to play volleyball instead at college. I also ran on the Colorado Jr Olympic team and was a national finalist in the 100 meter dash to run at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. Unfortunately I was in a car accident the week I was supposed to leave and was unable to compete due to neck/back injuries.”

Based on the information that I have collected so far, it seems as though this upcoming season is going to be a great experience for those who choose to join the track team. I had asked Ms. Daniels what else she liked to do outside of school and she replied, “I like to play tennis, work in my yard and flower/food gardens. Hang with my 2 dogs and spend time with my family and friends.” She had also stated “I like that track has many events so all students/athletes can compete. It is not just about running. Athletes get to compete against their own personal bests. It is also a great time to go outside and enjoy the spring weather.  I like watching athletes find their confidence in a new sport that many have not ever participated in and finding success and friendships in teammates!” I also asked how many years she has been coaching sports and she replied, “I helped coach the Jr. Olympic team when I was done with high school. I then coached for 20 years as a teacher. So in total, about 22 years.”

If you are interested in joining the upcoming track team it will be starting on March 8th, 2024.