Wrapping up cross country

Now that our cross country season is about a week in the rearview mirror, we can reflect upon it and unpack some of the emotions. Cross country season is unlike the other seasons in that all of our athletes are converged on the same things on the same days – one race, one distance. Track seasons have their blessings as well, but by their nature they are different than XC. Our cross country journey lasted a little more than three months – from the beginning of preseason to the culmination at ECAC/IC4A. As I told the team afterwards, it is a three-month journey in which we see each other nearly every day for that time period – there are no breaks at all! In that regard, it is intense and intimate at the same time. We had our ups and downs, but the common vibe was of togetherness and strength.

The old football coach Bill Parcells was known to say “you are what your record says you are” and in that regard our seasons are ultimately judged by meet performances and results. Our men’s team had a workmanlike season – we were consistently strong in effort and result. Although we fell just short of some lofty goals, we “held serve” in a competitive conference and region, and for that we have much pride and satisfaction – although we always strive to be better. Our women’s team had many great moments, according to Coach Chuck, and we would agree with that. It is still mystifying to us as to why we fell very short of our goals in two championship meets, but it is sign of our character that we were able to bounce back in a huge way at ECACs. For this reason, we have much to look forward to; and, much to be thankful for, as this group established the tenor for current and future teams. The senior class pictured here had a lot to do with that. They have created an almost matter-of-fact environment of the right way to do things on a daily basis, and they have built upon it each year since entering as freshmen. To quote one of my favorite current songs, “Free on the Wing,” by Blackberry Smoke: “One love story’s over and another just begun.” On to track.