The 2017 season was a special cross country season all around in the state of Texas. Dallas Ursuline Academy (DUA) is one of the top TAPPS programs in the state, but last year they were way better than just a good TAPPS school. They were the best and one of the best in the entire state.
They either won or placed high in all of their meets and it didn't matter who their competition was or where they were from.They graduated a couple of program impacting seniors, but their goal is to still be a force in the state.
We caught up with one of DUA's top returners Elise Welch. Welch is TAPP's top girls 5K returner with a 18:35.70 from last season.
Check out our Q&A with welch to see what she says DUA's (ALL 70 GIRLS) mindset is for this season and her personal goals for the 2018 cross country season.
Elise Welch Athlete Profile
TX MS: What has your off season been like?
EW: For my off season, I really focused on strength and solid base work. Along with raising my mileage a bit, I've also done more consistent core and hip strengthening, as well as keeping my recovery days at recovery pace and effort. I feel stronger and more determined than I have before. Also, a couple teammates and I went to the Boulder Running Camp and even ran with some of the St. Agnes team. It was a really fun training experience and I really enjoyed meeting some of the other TAPPS girls!
TX MS: DUA is coming off of one of the most impressive TAPPS seasons in a while, what was that experience like last season knowing you could go to any meet and not only run with but out run many of the UIL schools?
EW: Last season was incredible, because for the first time our team was really recognized and we were competing at the same level as some of the big Texas powerhouses. Also, coming from a conference where girls are limited to the 3200 during the championship part of the season, we have to prove ourselves in the 5k relatively early into our season.
TX MS: You all lose several big time seniors from last season, what is the mind set going into this season?
EWM: We are all very excited and hopeful for this upcoming season! We have two returning varsity members that ran in last year's State meet, as well as a returning member from a few seasons ago, so we do have some experienced varsity runners. However, we also have a lot of new runners and returning team members alike, who I believe have a really bright future in front of them. Overall, we have a lot of determined girls who are ready to step it up this season.
TX MS: You're one of the top TAPPS returners in the 3200m and 5K, what are your personal goals for your senior season?
EW: I definitely want to improve my times and really attack the State Championship this year. A big goal of mine is to break 18 minutes in the 5k this season. Team-wise, I want to do my best to continue our streak of winning State. This is my chance at 4-for-4, so it would be a really big accomplishment if our team is fortunate enough to pull this off.
TX MS: What are some specific things you'll need to do or work on to accomplish those personal goals?
EW: Consistency and focus is key for me. Maintaining my mileage and dedication to post-run recovery, like getting enough sleep and foam rolling, is really important. I want to leave no days wasted this season. Every day, whether it be a workout, easy day, or a rest day, has a purpose.
TXMS: What will be some things you'll be looking to help instill or teach the younger girls at DUA to help them continue the success the program has achieved?
EW: I believe our program is successful because all 70+ of us come to practice ready to get better, no matter if our goal is to break 27 minutes in the 5k or 20 minutes. Everyone is so supportive of each other and I think it shows. At its root, cross country is a team sport, so we can never lose sight of who we are as a whole. Every runner is essential to having a successful race as a team.
