Coach ,

Many of us are headed back to school and officially starting our 2023 cross-country campaign! It’s one of the most exciting times of the year, a chance to start with a new group that has bigger and better ambitions than the last. Now is the opportunity to captivate your audience and share new ideas that create lifelong memories for those athletes.

This summer the top cross country coaches in Texas sat down and shared some of the things that make their programs special. Each coach's unique perspective on ways to create meaningful memories and connect their teams was something I’ll never forget. I want to share the three lessons that stood out to me the most! 

Identity is one of the most underrated aspects of cross-country running. It’s something that has to be taught and nurtured with parents and athletes. Brock Simmons of Denton HS (TX) explains why you’re more than just a runner when you join their team. 

Link: The Runner’s Identity

Very few sports test the mental toughness of athletes like cross country. At Eustace High School (TX) Coach Seypert has found a way to get athletes to step up in the face of adversity. The practice of accepting and overcoming challenges is just one way he prepares his athletes for not just running but life. 

Link: Philosophy 

At Lovejoy High School (TX) Coach Littlefield describes the importance of consistency in all aspects of the student-athletes preparation. It’s more than just training. The system they’ve used stresses the importance of many critical components. It’s something that must be rehearsed and stressed by coaches. 

Link: Consistency

Identity, philosophy, and consistency are just three of my favorite snippets from this event. I wish everyone the best as they officially get started this season. For more information on ways to harden your team culture, check out the entire event and a couple of my other favorites below!

Always be growing,

The T&F Community of Coaches helping Coaches

P.S. These clips were taken from these awesome sources below. Thank you for sharing!

Training Tips for the Female Distance Athlete

2022 CCCAT Summer Coaches Clinic

2021 CCCAT Summer Coaches Clinic