Cross-country is not what you think, it’s a heavy mental sport. It helps people connect with one another and create strong friendships. Runners compete while pushing themselves and others around them to reach their goal.
Senior Cally Harris has been in cross-country her entire high school career.
She’s a very motivation driven runner.
She’s gained friendships and confidence during cross-country.
“It stands out, because it’s a team sport and it’s a really friendly environment and not toxic, no regrets of joining cross country,” Harris said.
Cross-country creates a community where they motivate and help each other through difficult times. Runners need a lot of motivation to not quit when you don’t do well.
{It is hard to continue and keep]“pushing myself to complete every workout and not quit when I didn’t get the place I wanted to at a cross meet,” Harris said. “It’s a way of getting my stress out.”
Cross-country is more than just a sport; it’s a need for most athletes, especially Harris.
“I think it’s important, because it mentally clears your mind and overall makes your body more healthy.” Harris said.
When asked about her favorite part of the races, Harris concludes that after the event is worth the wait.
“The best part was making friends and the bus ride after,” Harris said.
Friendships in sports are important to build a connection with your team and get to know one another better. Being around people who have the same goal can encourage those who lack confidence the first year.
“I would say they should join to make new friends and so their personality can grow,” Harris said.
Pushing yourself to do more than what you think you’re capable of shows you how much it’s worth it, and how good it feels achieving your goals.
“I would say it’s worth pushing forward because the outcome is worth it,” Harris said.
Seeing those who do something they enjoy, such as cross country inspires others around them to join and explore new things. Watching from the outside can look easy, but a lot of activities require a lot of encouragement.
“I’ve always liked running and it caught my attention when I saw a bunch of people looking happy, and it just looked like a friend group I wanted to be a part of,” Harris said.
