Victoria Hammersmith

The Low-Down on VICA

Coach Victoria, fondly known as Coach Vica, began her running career at just 10 years old. Her natural talent and determination quickly propelled her to the forefront of the sport, winning national titles in Russia for nearly four years. Hungry for greater challenges, she set her sights on international competition, moving halfway across the globe to compete for Eastern Michigan University. There, she thrived, running a sub-4:40 mile and becoming one of the nation’s top steeplechase athletes, qualifying for the NCAA Championships three years in a row.

What SHe Coaches

• Head Cross Country & Track Coach: St. Joseph Catholic School
• Elite High School Program Director: Without Limits athletes
• Youth Director: Upstate Running Club

Favorite Events

• Steeplechase
• Indoor Mile

Qualities VICA Admires In HER Students

Coach Vica finds immense joy in working with younger athletes, seeing in them the same fire and determination she had as a young runner. She values toughness over talent, emphasizing that grit and perseverance are the keys to crossing the finish line strong.

Defining Moment In VICA’s Career

Coach Vica’s journey has been one of resilience and self-belief. Growing up during the challenging times of the Soviet Union’s collapse, she embraced the philosophy of “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” Her determination led her to seek out a coach and a program across the ocean that believed in her potential.

Arriving in Detroit, Michigan, without knowing the language or a single person, she faced a daunting challenge. Yet, her unwavering self-belief allowed her to overcome every obstacle, paving the way for her success as an athlete and coach. This defining experience shaped her perspective and inspires her approach to coaching athletes today.

Coach Vica’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and the belief that greatness lies on the other side of perseverance.