Monday, August 28, 2017

Practice on Monday (and thereafter) will begin on the Track at 2:30.  I appreciate Mr. Rodgers encouraging kids cut from other teams to consider joining Cross Country. His characterization of YOU as AWESOME is spot on I'd say.  I would ask that you too encourage other kids who may be feeling a tad disappointed to come and join us.  The myth that we run 10 miles a day is just . . . silly.  There is a place on this team for anybody that is willing to make an effort.  I think you all know that.

Thus far I have been pleasantly surprised by some of the talent on the team.  I was looking forward to a successful season and I believe we will achieve that on both the Boys and Girls sides in 2017.  My sole disappointment thus far has been my inability to recruit any Freshman girls to the team.  It was only 6 years ago the Whitman-Hanson Girls were Division 3 Champions (my team finished 3rd, ouch!)  When I came to Whitman-Hanson I'd hoped to continue the success of my predecessors, Coach Erwin and Coach Black, but I must admit to some growing concerns at this point.  I know there are great runners out there playing soccer or volleyball or field hockey.  But I will not make any excuses. It's my job to fill the ranks.  Crazy to think the Captains of Girls XC 2020 aren't on the team yet!  But I know there are other kids out there who can contribute to the tradition.  Its up to us to find them.

One of the bright spots this year has to be the incoming Freshman boys.  First, we have quite a few.  Second, they are quite good. While some will make contributions this year, all will do so over the next four XC seasons and I will enjoy watching them progress as athletes.  But we have room for more, so the recruitment help I seek from the ladies, I also want to see from the gents.

Monday's workout . . . more easy running of varying distances/times  among our three groups.  Coach S will take Group 1, Coach Berens - Group 2 and I will again be with Group 3.  Strides, Core and Stretch to follow.  Also, announcement of the Practice Player of the Week.  The recipient may not come as a surprise, but the reason may.  See you at 2:30.