Due Tomorrow: SJS Cross Country Team Info (Gr. 5-8)

For all students in grades 5 – 8 interested in running Cross Country this fall, please note that the following items are due to SJS by Thursday, August 28th (the first day of school) — or sooner if you will be participating in the optional meet-ups noted below.

1.  2025-2026 Athletics Health Permission Form  (please remember, this is different than the standard health physical form and must be signed by the child’s doctor);

2. Cross Country Permission Slip:

3. $75 sports/activity fee.

Practices will typically take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school until 3:45pm, with meets (at other area schools) also taking place throughout the season (including some weekends).  Parents must be able to bring their runner to meet locations or arrange transportation with other families.  The season runs through late October/Early November.  Our parent volunteer head coach for this year will be Phil Miller.  Please reach out to him with questions at pnmnmiller@yahoo.com or 860-810-9902 (text/call).

Please note: Cross Country practices are expected to start Tuesday, September 2nd.  Runners must have the endurance to run a distance of AT LEAST one mile (without stopping) at the start of the season.  To help prepare for that, please download this four-week training plan that your runner can use (<—- click link).

On Saturday morning, August 30, several of the coaches will be at the Howard-Porter Reservoir to run with any SJS runner who wants to join them, followed by some ultimate Frisbee.  Details to follow for registered XC participants.  You must have turned in the required Health Permission Form, Permission Slip, and Fee prior to these dates for your runner to be able to participate.

Lastly, every runner needs a properly fitting pair of running shoes.  On Wednesday, August 13 from 5-7pm, Marathon Sports in Glastonbury is graciously hosting an SJS Cross Country Sneaker Night.  Come with your questions and appetite (there will be pizza!) and get 20% off a pair of shoes. Please see THIS FLYER for details.

The coaches are really looking forward to another fun season!  If you would like to volunteer to help, we always looking for extra helpers (no experience needed.)