Meet # 3 and Day 18 - 2019
Last night was our 3rd meet of the season, and it was held at Ripon College. Their indoor facility has become a favorite of ours not only because of the amazing facility but also due to how well they run meets. It was an enjoyable night with a great deal of personal bests being set.
In the long jump we had one new PR set, and two jumpers that competed in the event for the first time ever. I was very proud of the jumpers that competed, and felt that all did very well. Overall I think the kids are understanding landings better than in previous years, and I couldn't be more excited. We still need to work on the proper takeoff (some leaning backwards), but other than that approaches, flight, and landing is starting to really take shape!
In the triple jump the athletes performed very well! There was two new personal bests set. We continue to grow in the triple jump, but do have some work to do moving forward. I have grown a great deal in the last 3-4 seasons in this event, but I continually reevaluate my knowledge and approaches to it. There is so much to this event that so many simply don't understand. My reflections are crucial because they help me to never become complacent. I never want to simply sit back and use the same methods - even if they do work. I want to evolve, and the triple jump is an event that I am still (very much) learning about. We've had good success over the past 3-4 seasons, but I'm hungry for more!
The things I have started to spend a great deal of time reflecting on are:
1.) The overhead arm rotation at takeoff. This action (if done properly) can help the takeoff leg to rotate correctly to set the athlete up for an explosive step phase.
2.) The "kickback". I have told my athletes for the past few seasons to not kick back. I have done this because I don't want them to kick back and drop their chests due to the added force that will accompany that drop on their landing. I have started to reevaluate the kickback, but done at a downward angle that would allow them to stay tall.
At practice we had a "lactic acid" day to put our kids through "meet-like" conditions. They weren't taken to the meet, but they got stronger for the next competition they get to compete in!
TOMORROW:
Recovery day. I will be working on some low-impact triple jump drills, but other than that the kids will be doing RPR, rolling out, mental strength work, and a modified weight room routine. Gonna be another great day!