Welcome to Cross Country Training
Cross country racing is an exhilarating sport that takes runners off the track and into diverse race venues like hills, grass, dirt surfaces, golf courses, and parks. With its unique variety and social aspect, cross country brings together a team of dedicated athletes who train hard, compete together, and thrive on the challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or new to the sport, cross country demands commitment to build strength, endurance, mental preparation, and strategic racing skills for a truly rewarding race experience.
Announcement: Training has no seasons! Only your sport does…
“Cross Country is like poker. You have to be holding five good cards all the time.”
–Rollie Geiger, North Carolina State Cross Country Coach
Resource Page
Upcoming Events
Time Trial #1:
Sat 6/17 @ 7:30am …Details
Fourth of July 5k:
Tue 7/04 @ 8am …Details
Time Trial #2:
Jul 22 @ 7:30am …Details
Summer Practice Times, Days & Locations
Practice will be from 7:30 am – 9:30 am for all teams with varying locations based on training sessions. Information will be sent to you on Remind.
Varsity may have an optional secondary session in the afternoon- TBD
🔥Join Remind to stay in the loop!
Expectations and Requirements
Joining cross country can be a valuable experience. By being patient, consistent, and a team player, you can have a very successful first season. Expect It’s not going to be easy. XC is a difficult but rewarding sport. Almost all the best runners from MVHS have zero experience with cross country. It’s up to you how successful you want to be!
Do you want to make varsity? Or do you simply want to become a better runner? Both goals are achievable if you approach your summer training in the right way. No matter your sports background, you have to train in the summer to get ready for the XC season.
To develop a competitive program that instills work habits, dedication, and commitment to the Purpose of the program we have adopted the following Time Standards to be met prior to the start of the regular season:
**Coaches maintain the right to select or cut some runners based on criteria not listed above. All runners will be evaluated based on attitude, citizenship, work ethic, integrity, and coachability.
Newcomers and Incoming Freshman
Novice/ Rookie/ First Timer: There is no set time standard for this group of runners. Team selection is based on coachability, dedication, attitude, motivation, and fitness level. But there is an expectation of being motivated and doing your absolute best. The sooner you get in running shape, the sooner the real fun begins!
Returning Team Members
Sophomores: All returning sophomores must be able to run 1 mile in 5:30 for boys/ for girls 7:30 or faster to make the team.
Upperclassmen: All returning upperclassmen must be able to run 1 mile in 5:20 for boys/ for girls 6:30 or faster to make the team.
Varsity Consideration: Those aspiring to make the varsity team must be a Stotan (a cross between a Stoic and a Spartan) to push one’s physical and emotional capabilities beyond the limit! You must be able to run 1 mile in 5:00 for boys/ for girls 5:50 or faster to make the team.
Altitude Training Camp
Altitude Camp is designed as a bonding and team-building experience to focus as a team. An invitation is based on time trials, commitment, and attitude.
This year Altitude Camp will be limited to Varsity level athletes. The training location will either be at Big Bear or Flagstaff. More info to come.