Siebert's Training Camp Journal: Part One
8/20/2015 12:00:00 AM | Track & Field
Training Camp Journal, Chiba, Japan
When training for a major championship, preparation is the key to success. At the IAAF World Championships in Beijing this August, assistant coach Danielle Siebert will serve as an event manager for Team USA, while assistant coach Samyr Laine will compete for Haiti in the triple jump.
Siebert took some time to reflect on training camp in Chiba, Japan as the USA Track & Field team prepares for the upcoming competition.
Chiba, Japan
When I first arrived at the airport in Chiba, I was instantly exposed to the kindness and hospitality of the Japanese people. Our hotel is situated in Narita, which encompasses beautiful scenery, including running trails along the rice fields. It is a Japanese custom to offer gifts to guests and we received many souvenirs as we toured the various training venues that the athletes will utilize. One of the local elementary schools also made banners with encouragement for the athletes.
As a part of the advanced team, setting up the training camp facility was one of the first agenda items. The goal of training camp is to create a stress free environment where US athletes can prepare and transition prior to the championships. A top-notch medical staff is selected to travel with the team for chiropractic, massage, athletic training and sports psychology purposes. At the same time, the coaching staff ensures that all athletes are supported in the continuation of their preparation phase. Most athletes have prepared for a full year for this moment and it is the job of the staff to ensure that they have the proper environment to peak.
Our host hotel was set up with an athlete lounge, medical room and full cafeteria. The lounge becomes an area where athletes can bond by playing games, ping-pong, pool and Xbox. During the day, morning and evening practice sessions and medical treatment consume the majority of the time. A special prayer ceremony was also held at the Narita-san temple to pray for success in the coming championships.
Track and field unites many different types of individuals from across all parts of the country. The different disciplines of the sport and varying personalities allow for a culture that is always exciting. Seeing the athletes come together in the environment of the training camp is what makes this experience so special. There are only a few times when so many people can come together for a common purpose to represent their country amongst the world's best competition.
The town of Narita has embraced our USA team by sharing their culture, food, and customs in a wonderful way. As we wrap us this first phase of the journey, it is time to embark on the job ahead at the IAAF World Championships in Beijing.
I will catch up with Coach Laine when I arrive in China and from here, we will send our next blog post.
Go Terps!
Coach Siebert
