Smoke, Sweat, and Strategy | Boise News

Boise News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 17, 2026 · 1m

Wildfire smoke turned Boise State’s fall training into a survival challenge, forcing the women’s soccer team to adapt on the fly. With hazy skies and health risks for players—especially those with preexisting conditions—Coach Jim Thomas pivoted to shorter, smarter workouts. Athletic trainer Amanda DiEno monitored air quality daily, adjusting drills and reps to protect every athlete. Even indoor sessions brought new headaches: cramped facilities, heat, and humidity when football teams claimed the space. Yet amid the chaos, gratitude rang loud—thanks to university support and a united athletics…