Lexi Piazza

Where the Memories Begin by Lexi Piazza 

XC is magic in ways I can’t pretend,

The place where I met my closest friends.

I was welcomed in with warmth and love,

No other community comes above.

I am sad to leave this all behind,

There is no better group I could find.

As I get ready to start my next chapter,

I am going to miss this joy and laughter.

From dancing in the rain

And singing on our runs,

To pushing through the pain

And sprinting on the shot of the gun,

I will miss this team, 

my coaches and each teammate,

But what will gleam

is the community we helped create.

I’ll always support them and return to cheer,

I’ll see them thrive when I visit next year.

I’ll continue the sport in college,

But it’s the people I will miss.

Now I’ve gained this knowledge,

It’s them who bring the bliss.

It’s not about the medals, the trophies, or the win; 

It’s the people we celebrate with:

That’s where the memories begin. 

Author's note: This poem is dedicated to my cross country team. I joined the team last year and immediately discovered not only a love for running longer distances, but also a meaningful place in the community. This year, as a captain, I had the privilege of helping lead the team through an amazing season. This poem reflects my love for this team and the nostalgia I feel now that my high school cross country journey has ended, as well as my excitement for continuing to compete in college.