Welcome, New Parents​!

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Cross Country is a team endurance sport. Athletes race together on natural terrain courses (usually about 3 miles for high school). No prior running experience is required. The focus is on building fitness, mental toughness, teamwork, and personal improvement over the season and over four years. Every runner belongs—from brand-new beginners to returning veterans.

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​COACHING STAFF & HOW TO STAY INFORMED

Questions? Talk with the coaching staff. We're here to help your athlete grow for four years and beyond. 

Head Coach: Jason Carney

Email: jason_carney@ycjusd.us

Team Communication: Band App - weekly updates & direct messages with coaches

Team Website: SChedules, meet links, news

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Weekly Practice Schedule

Our weekly practice schedule is posted on the Home page of our team website. Consistency is the #1 predictor of success. Show up every day - even when motivation is low.

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What your athlete needs (The Basics)

1. Consistency

   - Show up every day

   - Small daily efforts compound over 4 years

2. Good Running Shoes

   - Recommended: Running Center in Redlands for first pair

   - Replace every 250 - 300 miles (3 - 4 months) 

   - Always carry a water bottle

3. Recovery & Fuel

   - 8 - 10 hours of sleep most nights

   - Eat enough - especially carbs before/after hard days

   - Hydrate all day, not just on race day

   - Strength work 1 - 2x per week to prevent injuries

4. Mindset & Team

   - Support every teammate (fastest to newest)

   - Celebrate process goals, not just times

   - Positive attitude is contagious

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Race List for the Current Season

Our race list is posted on the Race List page of our team website. Full course maps, exact schedules, and bus info are posted on the team website and Band App. All athletes are expected to complete through league finals unless ill or injured.

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Official Team Gear

Look like a team, feel like a family. Order official Yucaipa Cross Country sweats and apparel at: 

                                  https://stores.inksoft.com/yhscrosscountry/shop/home

Order soon so gear arrives before the first big meets. Great for athletes and for parents cheering in the stands!

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Fundraising

Fundraising pays for meet entry fees, quality gear & uniforms, postseason shirts, team events, carb parties, and the end-of-season banquet.

Blast Athletics: $200 online donation campaign. Every athlete is expected to join and share with family & friends.

Buyout: $200 one-time payment. Deadline: Wednesday, August 12th.

Community Cards: Sell YHS Cross Country Community Cards if you need extra help (while supplies last).

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How to Earn a Varsity Letter

Basic requirements (all four): Remain academically eligible all season • No unexcused absences from practices or meets • Good sportsmanship at all times • Participate in all YHS Cross Country fundraising activities.

Plus at least ONE of these: Qualify for the CIF team (top 12) OR Run under 17:00 (boys) / 20:00 (girls) on at least 3 courses this season OR Compete for Yucaipa XC for 4 full seasons. Coaches may letter an athlete for extenuating circumstances at their discretion.

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We’re excited to have your athlete on the team! Cross Country teaches grit, responsibility, and belonging. Show up, support each other, and the results will follow.