News Summary

SPIRE Academy in Geneva, Ohio, has announced its new cross country program, appointing Michael Larkin as head coach. Larkin brings a wealth of experience from his previous coaching roles, and his personal connection to the community adds to his commitment. The program aims to foster inclusivity and competitiveness, with plans to attract both local and international talent. As the inaugural season approaches this fall, Larkin’s focus on mental preparedness and supportive coaching promises an exciting experience for athletes.

Exciting News for Geneva: SPIRE Academy Launches New Cross Country Program!

In the charming city of Geneva, Ohio, there’s big news for athletes and sports enthusiasts alike! SPIRE Academy has officially announced the arrival of its new cross country program, and they’ve appointed Michael Larkin as the head coach to lead the charge. Talk about a fresh start and a thrilling addition to the local sports scene!

Meet Michael Larkin: A Coach with a Vision

Michael Larkin isn’t just any coach; he brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to SPIRE Academy. Previously, he served as the head coach for the track and field program at Notre Dame College, which, unfortunately, is set to close its doors in the spring of 2024. Larkin had joined Notre Dame College only a few months earlier in June 2023, tasked with revitalizing the program. But now, his eyes are set on an exciting new journey at SPIRE Academy!

With an impressive background in track and field as a hurdler, jumper, and sprinter, Larkin’s journey began at the College of New Jersey. He has worn many hats in his nine-year coaching career, starting as a graduate assistant at William & Mary, where he trained athletes in various track events. He really honed his coaching style and philosophy during this time, picking up valuable lessons that he plans to bring to his new role.

A Personal Connection to the Community

On a personal note, Larkin is quite invested in the local area. He met his girlfriend while coaching at Penn State Behrend and was eager to stay close to Cleveland after leaving Notre Dame. This connection to the community bodes well for his dedication to developing the cross country program, as he aims to create a team that represents the spirit and energy of Geneva.

Despite running cross country in high school, Larkin didn’t compete in distance events during his college years. However, he’s more than ready to embrace this new challenge! His coaching philosophy emphasizes having a strong race plan and the mental preparedness necessary to face competition. Larkin is all about making sure athletes can adapt on-the-fly during races and focus on keeping their composure without losing sight of their goals.

Building a Diverse and Competitive Team

SPIRE Academy is all about inclusivity and diversity! The new cross country program promises a mix of talent from both the U.S. and international locations. With plans to expand quickly, they’re even organizing a clinic in Kenya to attract international runners. It’s a bold strategy to pull in fresh talent from around the globe!

Equipped with top-notch facilities, SPIRE Academy has the ideal setup to accommodate cross country running courses right on its property. The administration is fully committed to bolstering the track program, which is fantastic news for Larkin and everyone involved.

What to Expect This Fall

As they gear up for their inaugural season this fall, the buzz around the new cross country program is palpable! Larkin’s appointment as head coach sends a clear message to the community about SPIRE’s vision and dedication to building a successful, competitive program.

With a focus on creating a supportive environment, Larkin is poised to mentor athletes and guide them through the challenges of competitive racing. The blend of local talent and international flair promises to make this program not just successful, but also a close-knit community for all involved.

So, whether you’re a seasoned runner or just getting started, keep an eye on SPIRE Academy this fall. The cross country season is set to kick off, and with Michael Larkin at the helm, it’s bound to be an exhilarating ride for everyone in Geneva!

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