DALTON, GA — The Dalton Academy proudly announces the appointment of Coach Jane’t Lloyd as the new Head Cross Country Coach for the Pumas. Coach Lloyd will continue serving as Head Girls Soccer Coach while stepping into leadership of the cross country program, bringing energy, experience, and a championship mindset to Puma Athletics.
Coach Lloyd arrives with an impressive history of building competitive and resilient cross country programs. She previously led the Metter High School Cross Country program for 10 years, where she transformed the teams into consistent state contenders. During the final five years of her tenure, both the girls’ and boys’ teams qualified for the GHSA State Meet, with multiple athletes earning individual state qualifications.
Her success is rooted in more than race-day performance. Coach Lloyd is widely respected for cultivating discipline, grit, and unity—qualities that define championship programs.
“Coach Lloyd understands how to build not only strong runners, but strong teams,” said Michael Bolen, The Dalton Academy Athletic Director. “Her commitment to developing the whole student-athlete aligns perfectly with the culture we continue to build at The Dalton Academy.”
Under Coach Lloyd’s leadership, the Puma Cross Country program will focus on:
Implementing a structured training plan designed to develop endurance, speed, strength, and injury prevention
Building team unity through leadership development, encouragement, and accountability
Supporting student-athletes with goal setting, progress monitoring, and consistent communication
Promoting academic excellence and personal responsibility alongside athletic success
Creating growth opportunities for runners at every level, from beginners to experienced competitors
In preparation for the upcoming season, Coach Lloyd will also launch a comprehensive summer workout program aimed at building a strong aerobic foundation while prioritizing safe, progressive conditioning. The program will feature weekly mileage goals, optional supplemental workouts, strength and mobility routines, and injury-prevention guidance to ensure Puma runners enter the season confident, prepared, and ready to compete.
Coach Lloyd shared her excitement about leading the program:
“I have always had a deep love and respect for the sport. Cross country is more than just running — it teaches students how to push through challenges, set goals, manage their time, support teammates, and develop mental toughness. These are skills that benefit athletes both on and off the course. I am excited about the opportunity to continue building on the success of the program while helping student-athletes grow in skill, confidence, discipline, and character.”
With Coach Lloyd at the helm, the future of Puma Cross Country is poised for growth, competitive excellence, and continued development of student-athletes who embody determination both in the classroom and on the course.
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