By Mariana Echeverri Alvarez, Communications Coordinator
Head Coach Alanna Boudreau’s journey in athletics evolved from a passionate athlete to a dedicated coach. Now, her commitment is focused on leading Manitoba’s track and field team for the 2025 Canada Summer Games. Her background in gymnastics, dance, and, ultimately, high jump and triple jump helped shape her coaching philosophy, which is grounded in the physical and mental demands of high-level competition.
A Natural Progression to Coaching
Boudreau started in athletics through junior high programs, transitioning later into her roles with the Manitoba Games, where she competed. The shift to coaching happened soon after she finished her own competitive career.
“I was always passionate about athletics, and stepping into coaching was a natural fit,” she says.
Since 2010, she‘s coached at the University of Manitoba, at Oak Park High School, and with local clubs, guiding athletes to develop their skills and approach competitions with resilience.
Motivation from a Promising Team
One of Boudreau’s driving forces this season is the dynamic group of athletes on her roster, with several athletes from the 2022 team returning alongside promising new talent from local high schools.
“This is an inspiring group with a strong bond,” she shares.
“Their work ethic and mutual support make them a joy to work with, and I’m excited to help them grow as athletes and individuals.”
Building Mental and Physical Readiness
Preparing her athletes for the Canada Summer Games requires balancing physical and mental training. Boudreau emphasizes that competing under pressure requires more than just physical strength; it involves knowing how to stay grounded in challenging moments.
“We incorporate mental training into our sessions so that athletes are prepared to handle the high-stakes environment of the Games,” she explains.
Through partnerships with Sport Manitoba and the University of Manitoba, Boudreau’s team has access to various mental training resources. This focus on mental resilience helps athletes gain confidence, while regular competitions allow them to practice handling diverse challenges.
“We create a team environment where athletes know they’re part of something bigger,” she adds.
Balancing Individual and Team Success
In a sport often defined by individual achievements, Boudreau prioritizes team cohesion as her athletes prepare for the Games. Leading up to the event, her team attends the Western Canada Team Challenge, a pre-Games competition reinforcing the importance of mutual support and camaraderie.
“Athletics may be individual most of the time, but events like this show our athletes the value of being part of a team,” she says.
Learning from Every Performance
Boudreau instills in her athletes the understanding that victories come in many forms, not just medals.
“A personal best is as meaningful as a podium finish,” she says.
“Athletics is as much about growing from each experience as it is about results.”
Her coaching approach encourages athletes to find value in every performance and to view setbacks as learning opportunities.
A Year-Round Commitment
For Boudreau, the excitement around major competitions is great, but she also champions the efforts athletes put in year-round.
“Our athletes are training and competing consistently, and their dedication deserves recognition at all times, not just during big events,” she notes.
She emphasizes that athletics offers something for everyone and that there are countless ways to engage with and support the sport.
Under Boudreau’s guidance, Team Toba is gaining more than just a coach—they’re gaining a mentor focused on resilience, team spirit, and celebrating every step of the journey. As the 2025 Canada Summer Games approach, her athletes are primed not only for competition but for personal growth, inspired to bring their best to the field and beyond.
