Despite losing key runner Jenna Hutchins late in their season, BYU found a way to claim the NCAA cross country championship title. Led by Coach Diljeet Taylor and runner Lexy Halladay-Lowry, the team finished 17 points ahead of their nearest competitor, showcasing a combination of grit, teamwork, and exceptional leadership.
As the BYU women stood together holding the championship trophy, Coach Taylor reflected on their journey. “I'm really proud of these women. They stay committed to this process [and] embrace the imperfect, which is what it takes. We've had lots of downs, lots of ups, but they ran for each other, figured out a way to fight their own battles, and focused on the team—that’s what cross country is all about.”
This unwavering commitment to the team and resilience under pressure defines Coach Taylor’s leadership style, both on and off the course. For runners like Jenna Hutchins, that leadership has been transformative, offering guidance through both triumphs and challenges. Hutchins shared her experience as a BYU athlete, reflecting on the impact of BYUrun4her and offering advice on staying resilient and embracing the process.
Diljeet Taylor's Impact
Coach Taylor’s influence extends far beyond race day. For runners like Hutchins, her guidance has been life-changing, shaping them as competitors and as people. “Coach Taylor made my dreams her own, and she’s been there through every single high and low,” Hutchins shares, reflecting on her coach’s dedication.
Under Taylor’s leadership, practices are both challenging and deeply empowering, creating an environment where athletes feel supported and valued. “The feedback she gives us is honest and real, and she makes each of us feel valued and loved,” Hutchins says. “She always goes out of her way to help us in any way we need, and we all look up to her for the way she empowers and inspires others. Her loyalty and passion are unmatched by anyone I have ever met.”
“Believing in yourself, having confidence in what you stand for, doing things the right way, and surrounding yourself with people that support you on your journey is crucial to a long-lasting and successful experience.”
As more women step into coaching roles in traditionally male-dominated positions, Taylor continues to lead by example, redefining what it means to coach women athletes. Her influence has shaped not only a team but a culture—one rooted in mutual respect, ambition, and the belief that great things happen when women support each other.
BYUrun4her: Running for a Greater Purpose
The BYU women follow the motto BYUrun4her. “It’s about running for the little girl who fell in love with the sport,” Hutchins says. “It can describe the action of running for something bigger than the current moment you’re in.” It reminds the women to keep perspective on what's most important to them, and to not lose themselves along the way. For Hutchins, remembering the reason she started gives her strength to keep going, especially on the toughest days.
“BYUrun4her allows me to look back and realize how far I’ve come. I know that my younger self would be proud,” Hutchins says. This motto is especially meaningful to Hutchins as she works through the challenges of recovering from an injury. “I’m very grateful to have a family, coach, and teammates that uplift me through the highs and lows and continue to believe in me,” Hutchins says. “Past experience gives me comfort in knowing that I am strong and capable of working through anything.”
Advice to Young Girls Aspiring to Run in College
To young girls aspiring to compete at a high level, Hutchins offers some heartfelt advice. “Appreciate the process and don’t focus [solely] on the outcome.” She encourages runners to stay connected to their love for the sport, and remember that challenges are part of the process. “Believing in yourself, having confidence in what you stand for, doing things the right way, and surrounding yourself with people that support you on your journey is crucial to a long-lasting and successful experience,” Hutchins says.
BYU’s championship win is more than a testament to athletic skill—it’s a story of perseverance, leadership, and the power of a unified team. Coach Taylor’s impact reaches far beyond trophies, shaping young athletes who believe in themselves and each other. With their motto BYUrun4her as a guiding principle, the BYU women’s cross country team continues to inspire others by running for something greater than themselves: A legacy of empowerment, resilience, and purpose.
