(RDP Athletics)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Michael and Jenna Schnare

RDP Cross Country Running and Indoor Track coaches eager to build on historic program

Jun 5, 2024 | 2:02 PM

When Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) Athletics began the search for new coaches of the Cross Country Running and Indoor Track teams, they did not have to look far.

RDP Athletics officials say past assistant coaches, Michael and Jenna Schnare have accepted head coaching roles to lead the Kings and Queens, beginning in the 2024/2025 season.

“Both Michael and Jenna bring a high level of dedication and expertise to the RDP Cross Country Running and Indoor Track teams,” says Randy Stewart, Manager, Athletics and Student Life. “Their familiarity with our athletics program will be beneficial as they help our student-athletes excel in the classroom, during competition and as ambassadors in our communities.”

During the past six years, RDP Athletics says Michael and Jenna have been significant contributors to the RDP Cross Country Running and Indoor Track teams in variety of capacities. In addition to assuming assistant coaching duties, officials note Jenna was also a former member of the Queens Cross Country Running and Indoor Track squads.

Both coaches say they are proud to guide these teams into the future and continue the legacy of excellence that was established by previous coaches.

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“Jenna and I are very honoured to be a part of such a strong program,” says Michael Schnare, Head Coach, RDP Cross Country Running and Indoor Track. “Brian Stackhouse, Kari Elliott and most recently Doug Spicer, have provided amazing leadership to build this high-performing program.”

Officials say the RDP Cross Country Running and Indoor Track program is regarded as a premier one in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC), consistently challenging for medals. Both the Kings and Queens Cross Country Running teams solidified silver medals at the 2023/2024 ACAC Championships.

Then at the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Cross Country Running National Championships, the RDP Kings finished fifth and the Queens tied for ninth.

“This season, we want to finish at the top of ACAC Cross Country Running on both the men’s and women’s sides and bring home some hardware from the CCAA National Championships in Windsor, Ontario,” says Jenna Schnare, Head Coach, RDP Cross Country Running and Indoor Track.

Along with earning a total of 13 individual and team relay medals, the RDP Queens Indoor Track team won gold and the Kings earned bronze at the 2023/2024 ACAC Championships.

While these accomplishments are impressive, officials point out, the Schnares want to extend their focus beyond medals.

“Aside from the results, we want to foster a supportive environment that helps our student-athletes succeed academically and in their daily lives,” adds Michael. “Jenna and I look forward to growing our connections with the student-athletes and strengthening the community within the program.”

RDP Athletics officials say Michael and Jenna are eager to commence their coaching duties and have plans to begin practices with the Cross Country Running team.

“Many of our student-athletes have already been training for the upcoming season,” says Jenna. “This month, we will begin weekly team practices for the student-athletes who live in the area.”

While the coaches are finalizing the Cross Country Running team’s roster, it’s noted they have added a former RDP student-athlete and sibling of a Kings’ standout.

“Melissa Ray, who previously competed for the Queens, is returning this season as she furthers her education. She has competed in marathons and ultramarathons which will play a key role on the team,” says Michael. “We are also excited to add Owen House, younger brother of alum Ben House, to the Kings.”

The Kings and Queens Cross Country Running teams will begin ACAC competition September 7.

For more information about RDP Cross Country Running and Indoor Track, please visit: rdpolytechathletics.ca.

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