Spalding XC  FAQs for Parents and Athletes

Ø Once school starts, where and when will regular practices be held?

Beginning Tuesday, Sept 6^th, practice will be after school from 3:15-5:15 PM Mon-Fri. Meet in the hallway between the cafe and old gym- dressed and ready to run.

Ø Are lockers available during practices?

Yes, the coaches will obtain a list of available athletic lockers during the first week of school and belongings should be locked up during practices. Athletes may need to share a locker and will need to provide their own combination lock.

Ø Is transportation available to the meets?

Yes, bus transportation for the athletes will be provided from/to Spalding for each away meet, both on weekdays and for weekend meets. The bus departure times will be updated on the website for each meet.

Ø Does everyone run in every meet?

With the exception of the Manhattan Invite, everyone on the team will participate in the meets. The coaches will determine in advance which event (Varsity, JV, open, etc.) each runner will be in and lineups will be posted on the website.

Ø What do the athletes wear during the meets?

Each athlete will wear the school provided cross country uniform, to be returned at the end of the season. Each athlete will be required to purchase a team t-shirt to wear over the running jersey at meets - details and cost will be provided early in the season.

Ø What do the athletes need to bring to the meet?

Trainers, spikes, race uniform, team shirt, water, healthy snack for before the race (on the bus ride).

Ø Are meets/practice ever cancelled due to bad weather?

It is rare for a meet or practice to be cancelled, regardless of the weather. The exception to this would be thunder/lightning, and severe wind/rain as in a hurricane, or dangerous course conditions. Every attempt to get the word out should a cancellation occur will be made with as much advance notice as possible - check the website scrolling display for any sudden cancellations.

Ø How long does the season run?

Training camp begins in August and the first meet is in September. The season runs until early November, ending with a potluck End of Season Dinner in mid November.

Ø Will my son miss classes for weekday meets?

Yes, depending on the distance to the away weekday meets, early dismissal may occur. This is an excused absence, however, athletes will be responsible for making up any missed assignments or tests/quizzes. When dismissal for athletes is announced, the athlete should proceed directly to the locker room to change into his running uniform, gather all his belongings, and board the bus in a timely manner. The bus will leave at the predetermined time, it is up to the athlete to make sure he arrives and boards the bus as quickly as possible so as not to get left behind.

Ø What if my son has to miss practice or a meet?

Every athlete is expected to attend each practice and participate in each meet as assigned. Should an emergency, illness or injury arise, the athlete must contact Coach Witte PRIOR to the missed practice or event.

For any additional information not answered above, please Contact Us