Lesley Wilson, head cross country coach said that to be in cross country runners have to possess self discipline. Wilson said this means runners have to make themselves do the work that is laid out in front of them. Cross country runners run about 400 miles during their season.
While running, Wilson said she thinks about getting done soon, getting a medal or anything else distracting.
Senior Erin Fuchs enjoys the adrenaline rush she gets from running. She said it makes her happier and more energetic. Wilson enjoys cross country because she gets to see people improve.
“Coaching cross country is like teaching someone to ride a bike. At first they are timid, but over time they get faster and gain confidence,” said Wilson.
Cross country can relieve the stress of a day. Fuchs said that while she’s running, she likes to let all of her stress out and think of things she has to get done and how she’s going to do them. Wilson said the best way to relieve stress while running is to run alone. However, running with people is a better way to have social time, she said.
Fuchs, junior Matt Haefele, and Fredrick agreed that heat makes running harder. However, they don’t let it stop them. Fuchs and Fredrick said one of the only things runners can do to cope with the heat is to stay hydrated.
Fuchs and Haefele said they motivate teammates with their positive attitudes and their words of encouragement. Wilson said she encourages runners by knowing their best time from last year and encouraging them to try to beat it this year.
The next cross country meet is the League meet at Rim Rock Farm in Lawrence on Oct. 14 at 4:30 p.m.
Early Saturday morning, the alarm wakes freshman Lauren Fredrick. She gets up and loads onto a bus by 5:30 a.m for her first cross country at Hayden High School in Topeka by 8. Fredrick placed fifth in the meet.