Interview with NCAA champion Hannah Cunliffe and Coach Curtis Taylor

Interview with Hannah Cunliffe

Catching up with Hannah after her stellar indoor national meet.

Ryan Banta: Hannah, over the last two seasons, what has been the biggest change in your program?

Hannah Cunliffe: Toughest change has been fall training. My body is constantly exhausted and it's a super intense three months.

How did you overcome the setback last outdoor season?

I had great support from my coaches, family and trainers. At the time I couldn't understand why it happened. I had a successful outdoor and then it just seemed like everything came crashing down on me. I had to stay very positive and think of the bigger picture. I was focused and determined to have a good comeback.

What do attribute to recent leap forward in performance?

Being more focused and determined in my training.

What is next for you? 

I want a chance to redeem myself from last year. Win a team outdoor title and it would be great to represent my country at worlds. 

What part of your game are you going to work on in this coming training cycle?

I am going to work on the littlest details. Hydration, stretching and executing my Saturday practices better.

What are your goals moving forward?

Moving forward I just want to be able to say I gave it my all and I did everything to my best ability.

What are your hopes and dreams?

My hopes are to be a professional athlete and be the best athlete I can be. My dream has been to make Olympic teams and win Olympic Gold medals since I was 7 years old.

As one of the most followed athletes in American track, how have you handled the life in the spotlight?

I don't really realize I am in the spotlight. I feel as if I am a regular person who just happens to be talented and determined.

How has your faith been such an essential part of you as an athlete?

I have realized since a young age the closer I am with the Lord the better I perform. When I'm slacking in my walk he sometimes has something minor happen that wakes me up and I get back on the path with him.