It's all about the little things. That's what Eagan girls' track and field is stressing. The athletes are doing a mighty fine job of taking care of those things, their coach says.
The Wildcats are taking countless steps to get the most out of practice sessions. This is critical for such a short season that's almost always made shorter because of inclement weather.
For example, despite the weather, the sprinters, jumpers and hurdlers have already had a handful of workouts outside this spring. They've been prepared.
"Every one of these athletes has been dressed and ready to have a great session," Graham said. "Sweat bottoms, tights and sweatshirts all set. Our distance kids show up every day prepared for the conditions. Many times, missing practice gear can wreck a workout."
The girls are proving that it's possible to work hard while having fun. Graham believes this will pay dividends down the line.
"The girls love to socialize, but they know when that stops and the training begins," Graham said. "The payoff for high track IQ are the gains we've seen in just over one week."
Eagan is the defending Class 2A, Section 3 champion. The Wildcats finished in third place in the South Suburban Conference and fourth at the state meet. Conference rivals Lakeville South and Prior Lake both finished ahead of the Wildcats in the Class 2A state meet, so they're no strangers to high-level competition on a weekly basis.
The good news? They were young then, and they still are. But they also have a veteran presence with all the intangibles that make for a successful squad.