Frequently asKed Questions

What are the expectations for Hillsdale XC athletes?

The expectations for Hillsdale Cross Country Athletes are:

1. Attend practice every day. Some weekend workouts may be done individually, but team practice attendance is mandatory.

2. Be ready to run at 4:00 pm on weekdays and 9:00 am on Saturdays. That means be at the track, dressed in athletic clothes with your running shoes on.

3. If you cannot make practice, you must contact Coach Lucey before practice, explaining why you are unable to attend and establish a plan to do the workout on your own. Regular absences from practice and/or lack of communication regarding absences may result in dismissal from the team.

What do I need bring to cross country practice?

Everyone should bring sweats, athletic shorts and t-shirts, running shoes, and a full water bottle to practice. Post workout snack (no nuts) is highly recommended.
A GPS-enabled watch makes tracking progress over the season a lot easier.

Also, if you have spikes/racing flats, bring them every day. For XC races in California, only flats are allowed. No spikes. You can check the training plan for information about the daily workouts.  Finally, we would like everyone to purchase a set of exercise resistance bands like these for functional strength and at home work.  A good solid foam roller would be beneficial to have as a competitive runner.

Where can I buy running shoes and what shoes should I buy

Every athlete needs a pair of trainers that they can use for road and trail practice running. Dedicated runners should also have a pair of Cross Country racing flats. A Runner's Mind in Burlingame has been our team's local shop and has given our athlete's a discount in the past. They can help you choose the an appropriate shoe.

Why am I running on the Varsity, JV, Open, or Frosh/Soph team?

First, trust that your coaches are going to enter you in the most appropriate classification to support the team and you.  Typically, the seven most appropriate, available runners will be entered in the Varsity race for each gender. Available runners are those who are healthy and have met the attendance and behavior expectations of the team. Juniors and Seniors not running Varsity will compete in the JV or Open race and Frosh/Soph runners will compete in the Frosh/Soph race. Freshmen and Sophomores may be entered in the Open race at meets that do not have a separate Frosh/Soph race. Frosh/Soph runners are eligible to race Varsity as well.