VILLA BELLA ATHLETICS

Coach Benavidez brings a strong track record of excellence and athlete development to the track program. He previously coached at Pueblo East High School from 2011–2013 and 2017–2019, specializing in sprints and relays. During his tenure as a sprint coach, his athletes consistently qualified for the state championships and brought home multiple medals. That success culminated in one of the most dominant sprint seasons in Pueblo’s history, where his sprinters swept the 100m, 200m, 4x100, and 4x200 at the state championships.

Coach Benavidez’s impact goes beyond competition. He believes athletes are built in the offseason, emphasizing strength and conditioning, goal setting, and data-driven growth. A former multi-time city and conference champion himself, he now channels that passion into developing young athletes. His coaching philosophy centers on meeting athletes where they are, celebrating daily improvements, and building a culture rooted in hard work, excellence, and encouragement.

Coach Benavidez is excited to lead the next generation of champions and build a program that develops competitors on the track and strong, resilient individuals off of it.

I bring years of experience in both track and field and basketball, with a lifelong passion for competing and coaching in these sports. I competed at the collegiate level where I became a Mountain West champion in the hammer throw at Colorado State University. Over the years, I've gained a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. My goal as a coach is to help athletes grow in their skills while also developing confidence, discipline, and strong character. I’m committed to creating a positive, supportive environment where athletes can thrive both on and off the field.

Coach Benavidez’s impact goes beyond competition. He believes athletes are built in the offseason, emphasizing strength and conditioning, goal setting, and data-driven growth. A former multi-time city and conference champion himself, he now channels that passion into developing young athletes. His coaching philosophy centers on meeting athletes where they are, celebrating daily improvements, and building a culture rooted in hard work, excellence, and encouragement.

Coach Benavidez is excited to lead the next generation of champions and build a program that develops competitors on the track and strong, resilient individuals off of it.

"Coach Audrianna Martinez brings over 20 years of volleyball playing experience and six years of coaching volleyball and soccer. Volleyball has been a lifelong passion for Coach Martinez, and she believes in using the sport to teach not just skills, but also discipline, endurance, and teamwork. Her coaching philosophy centers on helping athletes grow in confidence, develop strong fundamentals, and most importantly - discover their own love for the game."

Meet Coach Steves!
With years of experience in endurance sports, athletics, and functional fitness, Ms. Steves is excited to be our new Cross Country Coach! She brings a strong background in long-distance running, a degree in Exercise Science & Health, and a positive, winning spirit. Coach Steves is eager to lead our team to a strong, fast, and exciting race season! So, athletes get ready to run with heart and hustle on our new VBE XC TEAM!!!!