Dear Storm Family,
So how was the first meet? I hope it was incredible for everyone! I missed you but, I read through the results and can't be more pleased with how the team did. Check this out, of 10 divisions we placed top 8 in all but one. And we have a strong representative in up and coming Jenna, who is right on the verge of cracking into that elite group. What does the top 8 mean? Allow me to explain the basics for a full understanding. It took me 3 years to fully understand this so if you are like me, you might want to keep a copy of this below.
- Top 8 ranking matters for post season qualifying.
- For post season, our conference makes an all-star team for each division of the top 8 runners.
- Top 8 automatically get invited, however there are times when athletes choose not to compete in post-season
- There are 2 qualifying races in November, both of which are posted on our site and unfortunately are on Sunday.
- The national USATF Junior Olympics are held in Albuquerque this year, easy drive or flight.
- The team and conference provide some funding assistance which usually is at least $300 per athlete.
- In order to race in the post season you must first compete in 3 races during the season
- Of the races you compete in, you must place an average of 1-8 to be considered for first team.
- Pay close attention to your position after this first race and realize the following
- If you are top 8, start thinking if you want to run post-season.
- If you were just outside top 8 realize the season has only begun and I see athletes every year drop big time between now and the end, and move up the rankings.
- Set your goals right now and let's see what happens.
What if you aren't in the top 8? Number one you want to improve every week. In cross-country that means place. So go after the next athletes in front of you. If you are a new runner keep putting in the hard work and allow your hard work to build for the future. If you want to become a top 8 runner, learn what they do, how they train, push yourself and you never know what you can accomplish. We also are looking for the most improved, the spirit award, and the top athlete so there is more to recognition then place. You are all awesome!!!
So, with 6 races left in the season, let's rock and roll. At this point you need to be racing every race with all you got. Some weeks we will go into the race a little tired and that is ok. Other weeks we'll back down a little to give you a fresher feel. For this week, we'll keep pushing with more speed and hill work as we setup to race our home course this Saturday. That's right we are hosting the invitational this week. Parents, please look for more information as to some help we will need for the race Saturday.
I wanted to highlight my experience last weekend and what it means for you up and coming storm kids. I was out of town in Seattle to be with Elijah and Saugus varsity cross-country runners racing in the annual Sundodger Invitational hosted by University of Washington. As I watched the races I was so proud of what Storm continues to produce. 5 of the 8 represented girls are past Storm athletes and 3 out of 8 boys. In the high school league it's safe to say 50% of the top 20 athletes are past Storm. The legacy is strong and it's up to you guys to continue it!!
I'm looking forward to being back this week! Come out ready to work!!
See you soon!
Coach Jeremy
