#USA #Springfield #St. James Academy #cross country #Danielle Gray

St. James Performance Academy Welcomes Danielle Gray as Cross Country Head Coach

The St. James Performance Academy is excited to announce that Danielle Gray has been appointed as the Head Coach for Cross Country. This strategic move is set to boost the academy's Cross Country program, thanks to her extensive coaching experience and proven track record in the sport. Under her leadership, the academy is poised to enhance its athlete development programs while setting the stage for greater competitive success.

A Journey of Excellence

Gray's coaching career features impressive stints at renowned institutions like the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Stevenson University. Throughout her tenure, she has guided aspiring athletes to achieve NCAA qualifications, conference championships, and impressive personal records. Her capabilities in cultivating strong, results-oriented programs have demonstrated her commitment to excellence and sustainable athlete development.

One of the highlights of Gray's coaching career was her ability to produce standout athletes like Gavin Jenkins, a NCAA First Round qualifier, and Trent Whittaker, a multi-time conference champion and school record holder. Moreover, she has amassed experience in coaching several All-Americans and All-Conference performers, showcasing her skill at identifying and nurturing talent to its fullest potential.

At Stevenson University, she held the head coaching position and significantly contributed to the program's growth by effectively expanding the roster and driving overall performance. This experience will undoubtedly serve her well as she steps into her new role at The St. James Academy.

Enhancing The Academy's Framework

The Academy's Chief Sports Officer, Elyse Graziano, praised Gray's appointment, noting how her expertise in developing distance runners aligns perfectly with the academy's mission to foster talent. With Maurice Hutton, the Director of Track and Field, Gray will collaborate to reinforce the Cross Country program's leadership and strategic direction.

Gray expressed her excitement about joining The St. James Academy and contributing to a culture of excellence and opportunity that the academy prides itself on. She said, “This is a special environment for Cross Country and Track and Field runners, and I'm honored to be part of it.” Her enthusiasm for coaching and athlete development is already palpable, marking a positive beginning to her time there.

Upcoming Events

As part of the transition, The St. James Performance Academy is also inviting prospective families to its Track and Field and Cross Country Discover Day on January 6, 2026, at 1:00 PM in Springfield, Virginia. This event provides an exciting opportunity for families to engage with the coaching staff, explore the academy's facilities, and get a closer look at what makes The St. James a national leader in athletic performance and educational development.

The St. James: A Leader in Athletic Training

As a hub for elite athletes, The St. James offers state-of-the-art training facilities, including performance centers, full-size fields, and comprehensive recovery spaces. Their expert-led programs are designed to fine-tune athletes' skills, enhance strength, and prepare them for collegiate and professional opportunities. Gray's leadership is expected to further enrich this already robust system, ensuring that athletes are not only prepared for competition but also for long-term success beyond the track.

For more information about The St. James Performance Academy and upcoming events, visit The St. James Academy website.

Stay tuned as Gray and the rest of the coaching staff embark on what is sure to be an exciting and transformative journey for the Cross Country program at The St. James Performance Academy.