Do I need prior running experience to join the cross country team?
No prior experience is required. We welcome beginners and will help them improve their endurance and technique.

What is required to be eligible for the team?
Eligibility requirements include completing the athletic clearance forms found on the athletic page and having a current physical, meeting academic standards (see academic handbook), and completing the team uniform/fee form.

What is summer conditioning?
Summer conditioning runs from July 8^th to August 9^th. Practice times are from 6 am to 8 am. In order to participate in summer conditioning fill out the summer conditioning form on the athletic page.

What is the Big Bear Training Camp?
During the summer conditioning period we travel to Big Bear Lake for elevation training. This is not required but recommended for athletes as it is a great way to bond with teammates, and train in a new area. There is an additional cost for this event not covered in the summer conditioning costs.

How often are practices held?
Practices are usually held daily, Monday through Friday, with occasional Saturday practices or meets (races). Practices start at Acacia Park across the street from Rosary Academy

What should I bring to practice?
Runners should bring proper running shoes, appropriate athletic clothing, a water bottle, and a positive attitude. Warm up attire are required when the temperatures get colder (Oct/Nov)

What type of training do we do in cross country?
Training includes a mix of long runs, interval training, hill workouts, strength training, and recovery runs. Athletes will be given specific training plans based on ability and experience. 

How often are races held?
Races are typically held once a week, usually on Friday or Saturday.

What should I expect at a race?
Al levels will compete on the same day at races. League races have only 6 schools (~50 athletes) competing, where invitationals can have over 50 schools (~300 athletes) competing at a time. On the day of the race athletes will warm-up (1-2 mi) , run the race (3 mi), run a cool-down (1-2 mi) and then recover. Runners should arrive early and are encouraged to stay until the end to support teammates.

How are races scored?
Team scores are calculated by adding the finishing positions of the top five runners from each team, with the lowest score winning.   

What kind of shoes do I need?
It's important to have proper running shoes. Some runners also choose to wear racing flats for competition. Racing flats are not required to run a race but are recommended for more seasoned runners and are required for all varsity athletes. Running stores should be where shoes are bought such as A Snail’s Pace (Brea, Fountain Valley, Mission Viejo, Monrovia), Road Runner Sports (Irvine, Costa Mesa, Laguna Hills, Torrance) or Runners High (Long Beach)

Is there a team uniform?
Yes, the team fees cover the uniform cost. Uniforms consist of a singlet (race top) and running shorts. Other gear provided with team fees are a short sleeve and long sleeve shirt, warm-up pants and jacket, and gear bag. Runners may need to purchase additional practice gear.

How can I prevent injuries?
Proper warm-up and cool-down, strength training, wearing the right shoes, and listening to your body can help prevent injuries.

What should I do if I get injured?
Inform the coach immediately, rest, speak with the athletic training staff and seek medical advice if recommended by the coach and athletic trainers. Do not try to run through serious pain.

Heat Prevention
All coaches are trained in the first aid of heat related injury or illness. During the summer months temperatures are at levels that can cause injury or illness if preventative measures are not taken. All athletes should drink water before and after workouts. Water will also be provided during runs to keep athletes hydrated. Propel (covered in the team fees) will be provided to athletes after workouts.  

Can I participate in other sports while doing cross country?
Yes, while during the fall athletic season it is expected that cross country be the primary sport, we do not prohibit athletes from engaging in other activities. If you have questions or concerns about participating in multiple sports speak with the coach.

How can parents get involved?
Parents can support by volunteering at fundraising events (Friar’s Feast), providing snacks, helping with transportation to practices and races (where busses are not proved), and encouraging their child. If you wish to get involved more speak with the team parent representative.

What are the benefits of joining the cross country team?
Benefits include improved fitness, teamwork, discipline, time management, and the opportunity to make new friends and achieve personal goals.