Season Recap
October 11, 2016
Well, the 2016 HXC season will definitely go down as one the most successful in team history! Around 50 of us started back in mid-July at Endurance Camp. While the weather was often hot and uncomfortable, most if not all, kept coming back each day with the goal of getting a little better each day. With that type of mindset, we started to gain momentum in the early part of the season and that launched us into the invite portion of our season. We had a lot of firsts this year. First time in Herget history, we had a team of over 70 participants. First time, we have won “Run the Plank.” First time, we have had a 1st place team at Troy with the 7th grade girls. We were also Conference Champions as well as City Champions for both boys and girls. Most importantly we had a 100% improvement record. Every single athlete, who ran time trial 1, improved on that time throughout the season. We had walkers turn into runners, and runners turn into incredible runners. We had: course records, distance days, fartleks, speed, hills, laughs, white outs, black outs, talentless show, movie night, and 70 turn into one. Nobody rode for free, WE ALL ROWED.
Our 6th graders ensured that “the long grey line” will be a force to be reckoned with for years to come! One of my favorite parts of every season is watching how the 6th graders develop throughout the season. Many came in on that first day and probably wondered what they got themselves into. Those who stuck it out not only saw improvement but learned a lot about what it takes to be successful in Cross Country; dedication and hard work. I can’t wait to see how this group builds off this year’s momentum into next season.
Our 7th graders made a huge leap this year! They went from being a talented group with potential to a truly “elite” group that capitalized on that potential. I could see early on at Endurance Camp that our 7th graders were focused and determined. They have incredible team chemistry and pushed each other to unbelievable accomplishments this year. I look forward to seeing how far they can push the limits once again in 2017.
Our 8th didn’t quite have the numbers that our other grade levels had. With only 6 boys and 5 girls, every runner was heavily relied upon. It seemed like at every invite when we need someone to step up; many were able to answer the call. In their career, the 8th grade boys saw two city championships and went undefeated this past season during weekday meets. In their careers, our girls never lost a weekday meet and were part of three straight city titles. A truly elite group! Their contributions to the program are much appreciated. No matter whether this is their last season in XC, or they continue in high school, they will always be part of the “long grey line”.
Looking ahead, if your son or daughter has a strong interest in XC, I would suggest getting them involved in a running club during the off season as there are many good ones locally. Also, we HIGHLY recommend Endurance Camp in summer for any athlete looking to compete in XC for 2017. Endurance Camp is where we begin to log our miles to get our bodies prepared for the upcoming season. It’s also a great way to reconnect with old teammates as well as meet some new ones.
Once again, thank you to all the parents for the support! As I mentioned, we started this way back in July and appreciate the sense of community we have in Herget Cross Country. You’re all part of the HXC Fam! #runhxc #beelite
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