Cross Country is a new sport here at Holy Spirit. There were a lot of people who tried the sports for the first time that really enjoyed it. Parker Smith, Nicolas Saberin, and Amelia Lancara all ran for the team this year. Each one responded with a resounding “yes!” when asked if they will participate next year.

Cross Country also has a lot of ups and downs. Some of the ups are beating your time, getting to have popsicles, having a good time with your friends, and having a good time at meets. Then, there are some of the downs, which are getting a cramp and having to slow down, being sick and not being able to go to the meets, and being late to practice.

Cross Country is also very good about keeping runners active so that they are not just sitting on their butts for half of the practice. According to Parker, the sport has a lot of added advantages as “It’s made me in better shape”. So Cross Country can helps with your health, it keeps you in shape, and it helps get you ready for other sports. Just ask Nick, who said the sport has “made me stronger both mentally and physically”.

If you are looking for a new sport to play but are afraid you won’t do well, do not worry. Cross Country is also a non-cut sport, so everyone makes the team. The group is also filled with very supportive teammates. When asked about what the team spirit is like, Amelie responded by saying “The team spirit is very supportive and understanding, and they are always there cheering you on”.

You don’t even need a lot of experience and coaching to compete, according to Amelie, “We can have our own techniques, and just go out and run whereas other sports require lots of coaching.”

But that doesn’t mean you can’t improve through expert coaching. The coaches we have are “great because they have experience” said Nick. Amelie would agree as this is what she had to say about the coaches, “I think that they are great, supportive, and know what they are talking about”.

There are a lot of reasons why you should give Cross Country a try next year. If you are looking for a team with supportive coaches and teammates, a sports that will help you in other sports, or just a fun way to exercise with friends. Then XC just might be the sport for you.