JLS Cross Country

Tom Haxton

Tom started coaching JLS cross country and track and field in 2023 when his oldest son started the sports as a sixth grader. He previously coached three seasons of youth soccer.

Tom competed in track and field and cross country in middle school, high school, and college, where he was the NCAA Division 3 national champion in the 10,000 meter run and won multiple conference championships for the University of Chicago. He currently competes for the West Valley Track Club and was a member of their team that won a championship in their age group at the 2023 USA club cross country national championships.

Tyler Chenhall

New to the JLS coaching team this year, Tyler has been a private running coach for several years.

Tyler ran his first 5k when he was 8 and competed in cross country and track during middle school and high school. He returned to running more seriously as an adult, focusing more on half and full marathons. He is also an organizer for the Palo Alto Run Club and a regular volunteer and runner at the Byxbee Parkrun.

Maria Polykov

Maria is excited to begin her first season coaching JLS cross country in 2025. She ran cross country throughout middle school and high school, where she developed a strong appreciation for the sport and the friendships it builds. She continues to enjoy running in her spare time. With experience coaching youth soccer, Maria looks forward to combining her experience in coaching and her passion for cross country to support the JLS cross country team.