What Cross Country Has Done For Our Student Athlete
As a girly girl, I once thought I would become a dance mom or cheer mom. As it turns out, God had different plans! He gave me two boys who have turned me into a 24/7 sports mom. Instead of glitter and tutus, my car contains remnants of mud and a rattling can of bug spray. And the dirty sock smell? It just won’t go away!
I am grateful for my boys and the path they have taken our family along. Most recently, that path has been full of Cross Country (XC) Meets.
My oldest began running last year without any training. As a beginner, his stamina and mental toughness amazed us! He trained hard this summer, and we look forward to what this season’s Cross Country will bring.
I’ve learned a few things too so if you’re a parent looking into Cross Country for your child, here is what it has done for our student athlete:
Cross Country is a team sport.
I had no idea! After grueling practices in all weather imaginable and trips across the state of Louisiana, my son has built an unmatched camaraderie with his teammates. Sure, Cross Country appears to be a sport based on individual finish times, but my son does not run for himself alone. He cheers for his teammates, both on and off the course. He also told me he speaks with the competition while running. If he sees an athlete struggling on the course, he offers words of encouragement! How he can speak while running three miles is beyond me, but my heart is full knowing he is out there giving his best to the world.
Cross Country has enhanced his speed and skill in other sports.
We have seen my son’s gameplay improve in both soccer and baseball. The constant training required from Cross Country ensures our student athlete is quick on his feet and mentally resilient … with a boost of stamina needed for all sports.
Confidence.
My son is an introvert. Putting himself “out there” on a grand, public stage will always be intimidating. Cross Country is building his confidence to persevere in his anxious feelings and self doubt. He sets goals, and when he blows past those goals, I can see the belief in himself soar. The thrill of the race is a huge boost to those needing to build their self confidence.
My student athlete has also improved in other aspects of life because of his commitment to Cross Country.
If you are a parent looking for a sport where your student-athlete can …
- Develop a strong support and friend system
- Improve speed, agility, and mental strength for other sports
- Build self confidence
