For 45 years, “making it to San Diego” was the ultimate resume builder for a high school distance runner. The Foot Locker Cross Country Championships weren’t just a race; they were an institution. So when the news dropped in August 2025 that Foot Locker was discontinuing the event, it was a gut punch to the…
As coaches, we often talk about “generational talents”—athletes who don’t just win, but fundamentally shift the paradigm of what we believe is possible at the high school and collegiate levels. We saw it with Mary Cain, we saw it with Katelyn Tuohy, and now, we are witnessing it with Jane Hedengren. If you’ve been following…
The Hidden Risks of Dual Coaching for High School Runners The landscape of high school distance running has changed. What used to be a seasonal activity has morphed into a high-stakes, year-round industry. With high school times dropping to historic lows, it’s natural for parents and athletes to look for an edge. For many, that…
I stood at the 2.5-mile mark of the NH XC Division 1 championships at the brutal Derryfield Park course a few years back, watching one of my most dedicated varsity runners approach. She should have been surging. Instead, she looked gray. Her form was breaking down, her eyes were glazed, and she was fading fast….
Building a successful high school cross-country (XC) or track team isn’t just about individual talent or winning races—it’s about cultivating a team culture that thrives on unity, camaraderie, and common goals. A tight-knit team culture can significantly impact a team’s performance. And, if your team is anything like mine, you know that half the reason they joined the team was to be invited to the team dinners.
As preseason training for high school cross country begins, many athletes have questions. Read on to see answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about preseason training for cross country.