What is the philosophy of Cullman cross country in regard to training the athletes?
Our expectations of each kid is based on their ability and training age (how long they have been consistently running or training with sports that include aerobic running in their training and competing). We do not coach kids based on someone else's (parent, friend, sibling) ability. Training is very specific and as individually based as possible. This keeps kids healthy and allows them to continually improve as long as they are doing all the work and doing it correctly.
What is a typical day of practice like?
- After 6th period, the middle school athletes need to meet each other by the CMS gym and walk over to the tennis courts together. They will then dress out and gather under the pine trees adjacent to the tennis courts.
- Some days we run distance within specific pace ranges and some days their is a more specific workout than just covering a certain amount of distance at a certain pace. Each day their will be supplemental work such as stretching, core work, and strengthening exercises.
- Practices are usually over about 4:30 PM.
Where should the kids put their bags?
- We are working on being able to provide the building adjacent to the tennis courts as a safe storage for the athlete's bags, but until that is worked out with the city and the tennis program I cannot promise it.
- Until then athletes will place their bags underneath the awning by the tennis courts as we have in the past or in the bathrooms of the tennis building to protect it from wet conditions.
Are ALL practices required?
- Yes.
- We take roll at the beginning of practice EVERY DAY. We expect each athlete to stay for the entire practice.
- Being a part of this team is a commitment we take seriously and it must be that way for our team to be successful and for our children to cultivate habits that lead to success.
Is a GPS watch required?
- No.
- However, we encourage it. It is a great training tool to help athletes learn themselves in regard to pacing and effort as well as track mileage.
- There are some great inexpensive options from TomTom and Garmin that I would recommend.
What equipment does each athlete need?
- Shoes are the most important. They protect your feet from injury.
- You would not let a kid go to football practice with an old helmet you got at a garage sale. Please treat your child's feet and body with the same regard in terms of their shoes. When a foot or leg or hip starts hurting it is almost always due to the child needing new running shoes. This piece of equipment is crucial.
- Timex (or another brand) watch with "chrono" needed. GPS watch (preferred, but not mandatory).
- Racing shoes
- Socks that do not move protect the feet from blisters.
How can I tell if my athlete is injured or just sore?
- Kids are going to be sore if they give the proper effort at practice.
- Sore is when the muscles are tired or achy before or after practice but function properly during the practice once the muscles are warmed up.
- Injured or HURT is when the pain gets worse in a specific area through the continuing of the workout and the muscles cannot function properly.
- If you are sore --- it will get better ---give it some time.
- If you are injured, we will have them see the athletic trainer and let them refer them to a doctor if necessary.
- If you end up being in need of a podiatrist, we have a wonderful connection through our coach, Dr. Eric Fillinger.
What is the approach to balancing academics and athletics?
- It is crucial to balance school work with athletics. The key is PLANNING AHEAD and being PROACTIVE. Do not let assignments or reading pile up. Do not wait until the last minute to study. One of our core values is to live life with the proper balance. We strive to help our athletes learn how to do this successfully as they progress in our program.
What is the best way to communicate with the coaching staff if I have a question?
- Email: tdean@cullmancats.net
- I check my email often so I will be able to get back to you relatively quickly.
- You can call me as well if it is more urgent or an emergency 256-303-3333 (cell).
How does the team travel to and from meets?
- It depends on the meet. I will send out specific information before each meet through email. However, we most always travel by bus.
What should athletes wear to the meet?
- Uniform
- Cullman Cross Country TEAM shirt over the uniform top and black athletic shorts, pants, or sweats over the racing bottoms. When it gets cold they can wear their sweat shirt top over their TEAM shirt and uniform as well.
- Wear training shoes, but bring racing shoes.
- Wear our Cullman Cross Country attire as described above. No Alabama or Auburn gear, etc.
What if I miss a meet?
- Every Junior High athlete is allowed to miss one meet. The only exception is our championship meet at St. Bernard (Oktoberfest).
- Other school sponsored events do not count as excused absences.
How does an athlete sign-up for Cross Country?
- If a friend or someone you know asks you a question you can always tell them to contact me. I do not mind if you share my contact information.