Nativity of Our Lord
Cross Country
The Junior CYO Cross Country program participates in the Region 11 division within Area C of the Archdiocese. It is open to all Nativity School and PREP students in grades K -8th. Both boys and girls can participate.
Season
The Region 11 Cross Country season runs from August 1st through November 1st. There are 5-6 practice meets scheduled for 1PM on Sundays in September and October. The Archdiocese Championship meet is held on the last Sunday in October. Athletes can also participate on the Philadelphia CYO Cross Country team at the Northeast Regional Meet, and Cross Country Coaches National Youth Championship Meet which take place in November.
Age Groups
Athletes are categorized into age and gender groups. At times, age groups and/or genders
may be combined for an event. An athlete’s time and rank will only be determined within their own age group and gender. Athletes should remember they should set their own personal goals (a PR – personal record) and try to beat their OWN times/PR on a weekly basis.
The age groups are as follows:
| Bantam Age Group | (born in 2015-K) - 2k distance (1.25 miles) |
| Novice Age Group | (born in 2013 or 2014) - 3k distance (1.86 miles) |
| Minor Age Group | (born in 2011 or 2012) - 3k distance (1.86 miles) |
| Cadet Age Group | (born in 2009 or 2010) - 4k distance (2.50 miles) |
Practice
Practices will be held at Warminster Community Park starting in the beginning of August. A good running shoe is also encouraged. All athletes should have a water bottle.
There will be no practices held on blackout dates scheduled by Nativity of Our Lord, Region 11, Area C or the Archdiocese CYO organizations. These blackout dates can be found on the Nativity of Our Lord CYO website. If practice needs to be cancelled due to the weather a notice will be sent prior to practice. I will try to have the email sent out at least 45 minutes prior to practice time. It should be noted: XC runs in rain or shine, cold or hot weather.
Conflicts with other commitments
We are aware that many of our athletes are also involved in other activities such as PREP, spring sports, cheerleading, dance etc. We expect and understand any conflicts that may arise during the season. Athletes should attend practice when they are available. We would like athletes to attend at least 1 practice per week. We have found the best way to coordinate all activities is through good old fashioned communication. Coaches do NOT have to be advised if your son/daughter knows they are going to miss a practice. However, if they are unable to participate in a meet or need to arrive late or leave early we ask that you let us know prior to the meet. Keep in mind, as with anything in life, you only get out what you put in. Practice builds a foundation for a cross country athlete. A strong commitment in August and September translates into a successful October/November. Coaches will take participation in the program into account when selecting year end awards.
Locations & Schedule
Please check the Nativity of Our Lord CYO website for addresses of the locations of Practices, Practice Meets, Championship Meets.
Running Shoes
A good running shoe is also encouraged. Regular running shoes should be used for practice. Racing spikes or flats can be used for competition.
Track shoes come in two different varieties – Sprinting and Distance, please make sure if you are purchasing track shoes that you purchase the proper type. They may look similar but are not.