My Team

As Valentines Day is approaching and I’m feeling kind of thankful, I thought I would take a moment to talk about the “team” aspect of training.  As with anything else, when you are trying to accomplish a goal, it helps to have a support system in place.  My support system consists of many people, but specifically I am surrounding myself with people that care about my goal and have the expertise and desire to help me to succeed.  With my success, they feel they have succeeded.  What more could one ask for?  In training for a long distance triathlon, a lot CAN go wrong, and often does.  The older I get, unfortunately, the more this is a reality.  The good news is, when you have a team to help you, you can nip minor issues in the bud before they become larger issues-or worse- show stoppers.

So, who is on Team Stokes?

First and foremost my family.  Without the support of my husband and children, I would not be able to accomplish my goal to be an Ironman this year.

Secondly, my friends.  I have to say as most of you know, I CAN be a little obsessive sometimes–OK, a lot and often.  You guys keep me grounded.  Thank you for putting up with me and being supportive.  I can imagine this year will be trying for you too!

My coach, Jason Gootman of Tri-Hard coaching.  I am often asked, you are a coach, why do you need a coach?  My answer to this is, professional athletes have coaches.  Enough said.  In any event, having patience is definitely a forte of Jason.  I often think I must be driving him crazy with my schedule change, lack of desire to take days off, and nutrition headaches.  Sorry Jason, but thank you!

My Physical Therapist Eric Cardin of South County PT.  I can’t tell you how many emails and “drop by” conversations we have had. He is always there to help me and has great advice when something isn’t quite right.

My massage therapist Jessica Reyes.  Jessica is amazing and really helps me to stay healthy, not to mention relaxed (well, as much as I can relax).  Nothing is better than a weekly massage to keep the circulation flowing and to workout tired muscles.

So what, you say.  Why is Diane blabbing about this?  I’m just saying……….maybe YOU need a team too