Unleashing Potential: The Sanford Triathlon Program's Holistic Approach to Youth Development

At the heart of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the Sanford Triathlon Program, led by the indefatigable Kathy Grady, is redefining what it means to train young athletes. This program, a beacon of the Sanford Wellness Center and in partnership with Z3, goes beyond mere physical training; it's a crucible where young spirits are forged into robust characters, ready to face life's challenges head-on.

More Than Just a Race

Kathy Grady, an aquatic supervisor with a vision, initiated this program in Sioux Falls back in 2011. What started with just six eager young athletes has burgeoned into a thriving community of 45 dedicated youngsters, ranging from six to eighteen years old. These kids come from diverse backgrounds, representing four different school systems, creating a melting pot of young talent and ambition.

The atmosphere at a typical training session is electric—high fives and encouragement are the norms, not exceptions. It's a place where competition is healthy and every participant is a cheerleader for their peers.

Building Foundations for Life

The Sanford Triathlon Program isn't just about crossing finish lines faster; it's about instilling values that transcend sports. Partner organization Z3 helps embed pillars of character such as humility, integrity, accountability, respect, sportsmanship, safety, and goal-setting into the training regimen. Kathy Grady emphasizes, "We hope these lessons stick with the kids into adulthood, shaping them into well-rounded individuals."

Balancing Act: From Competition to Coaching

Hannah Droge, a former competitor turned coach, embodies the program's success. After competing fiercely from sixth to ninth grade, Hannah faced burnout—a testament to the demanding nature of high-level competition. However, her journey didn't end there; it took a new direction towards coaching. "Watching the kids fall in love with the sport and grow throughout the season was profoundly rewarding," Hannah reflects. Through coaching, she discovered a new dimension of the sport—nurturing potential and witnessing personal victories and setbacks of young athletes.

A Legacy of Growth and Gratitude

The impact of the Sanford Triathlon Program is a lasting one. Both Kathy and Hannah speak of the profound personal development they witness in the participants. "Seeing these kids grow, not just as athletes but as people, is incredibly fulfilling," Kathy shares. For Hannah, leaving the program was bittersweet, marking the end of a significant chapter in her life—one that shaped her into the person she is today.

Learn More and Get Involved

The Sanford Triathlon Program continues to garner attention not just for its athletic successes but for its commitment to personal development. Learn more about how this program leads to national titles and discover how safe bicycling can enhance your fitness during the warm weather on Sanford Health's sports medicine page.

The Sanford Triathlon Program is more than a training ground; it's a transformative experience that equips young individuals with the skills to thrive both in and out of competition. It's about growth, character, and community—values that Kathy Grady and her team instill in each participant, ensuring that the finish line is just the beginning of their achievements.

#TriathlonTraining #YouthSportsDevelopment

Source:

https://news.sanfordhealth.org/sports/triathlon-coach-pushes-for-more-than-just-the-finish-line/