America has some problems. I don't need to talk about those, because let's face it, you don't want to read another blog post about what's wrong.
So, let's talk about cross country. It's what's right and good and awesome. And kids all over America are lacing em up and hitting the pathways and trails in your towns. Slower kids brand new to sports, 17 year olds who have run over 500 miles since May, and converts from other team sports who simply didn't have the physical tools or last name to get a jersey are all running.
In my state, girls with traditional head coverings have been cleared to participate without violating uniform rules. Some of the smallest towns in the state are the biggest giants at the state meet and will go on to outpace big city schools at regional Nike, New Balance or Foot Locker races.
Because a 5K course doesn't care about your ethnicity, which part of town you're from or the cost of your fancy warm up suit. All that matters at the finish line is your preparation, passion and willingness to be baptized in the river of hard work and be reborn a better version of yourself. Then of course chatting with a new friend from another town in the finish chute while regaling tails of conquering another 5K gauntlet. And who couldn't use more unifying talk about overcoming a common goal.
In our sport former national team coaches come home to teach middle schoolers how to pace themselves. And former successful Division I college coaches come back to smaller colleges because passion for running is a land of equality. And these folks do it simply because they love the sport. In fact, you'll find the most qualified coaches in your town may just be the ones working with the cross country misfits.
So, while America is obsessing over grid iron greatness, myself included, consider the kids in your town who are about to embark on their cross country season. Encourage them as they run, and look for a chance to see them race. Experience a sport that truly showcases the land of running free and the racing brave.