20 REASONS WHY CROSS COUNTRY MAY BE THE BEST HIGH SCHOOL SPORT
20 REASONS WHY CROSS COUNTRY MAY BE THE BEST HIGH SCHOOL SPORT
No benches here—every runner races and contributes to the team score.
XC teaches students how to push through pain and discomfort—key life skills.
Running hundreds of miles together forges deep, lasting friendships.
All you really need are shoes. No expensive equipment or facilities required.
Running builds cardiovascular health and habits students carry into adulthood.
Improvement takes time, dedication, and consistent effort—great life lessons.
XC races take place in parks, woods, and fields—not gyms or turf—building an appreciation for nature.
You can chase PRs and contribute to a team victory—unique to XC.
You don’t need to be tall, muscular, or a certain size—just determined.
XC culture emphasizes cheering for everyone, even competitors.
Running is a proven mood-booster and stress reliever for teens.
Beginners often see dramatic gains early, which boosts confidence and motivation.
Small team sizes and long training runs foster real mentorship.
Teammates inspire each other to show up, work hard, and give their best.
XC meets are high-energy and full of team pride—even without bleachers.
Aerobic exercise has been linked to better concentration and academic performance.
Races often take runners to new places, from local parks to state-wide events.
Endurance from XC helps in basketball, soccer, wrestling—you name it.
From weekly mileage to race times, goal-setting is built into the sport.
XC teaches grit, humility, resilience, and sportsmanship better than almost any other sport.
Tradition of excellence with boys & girls placing in top 10 in state in last 8 out of 10 efforts while girls have won region titles 13 years straight and boys 12 years straight.