What makes a good athlete? Maria Corcoran, a Rocky Hill High School senior on the cross-country team, has all of the qualities that make her not only an amazing athlete but also a fantastic leader.
“The miles [Maria] put on her legs and the hours she has worked, not only this summer but also the past three years in high school, have helped pave the way for her success,” said her coach, Mr. Bobrow. Due to her hard work, Bobrow is able to craft a training plan that has more volume and is grouped into two to three-week blocks that work different systems of the body.
“I also prioritize sleep because I didn’t really sleep freshman and sophomore year and I really suffered for it and felt burnt out by the end of the season,” said Maria when asked about her training plan. Bobrow estimated that Maria’s training plan consists of about 80% easy runs and just putting miles on, and 20% hard workouts and meets.
This well-crafted training plan and Maria’s dedication were setting her up to be in the perfect place to run a competitive 5k in this year’s fall cross country season. And a competitive 5k she has run, shaving more than an impressive 20 seconds off of her previous personal record to claim the victory at the Blue Dragon Invitational for girls cross-country.
Maria is also a great leader to those on the cross-country team. “It is evident through the way that she is always checking in on the younger kids at practice and making sure that they are okay, that she is just a good person,” said Bobrow.
But running not only brings Maria athletic achievements, but also a sense of peace. “I find myself able to think clearly when I run which just helps my overall wellbeing,” said Maria.
“Maria will be the first to tell you that this year she really found the joy… and once you find the joy in whatever you’re doing, it makes it that much easier to do,” says Mr. Bobrow.
