No time outs. No substitutions. No water breaks. Just run. Cross country measures not only physical ability, but mental strength and willpower.
“Cross country has not only transformed our performances on the course, but also changed our general outlook on life,” senior Daniel Zaccariello said. “I think it has helped us develop into responsible and disciplined young men and women.”
This positive attitude helped these athletes through the tough times on the courses and strengthened them.
“A former member of the team, Luke M. Parlatore, who passed away, once said, ‘Never give up’,” junior Paul Brancale said. “We run for him and that is what we stand by.”
These athletes carried themselves with pride and showed respect towards others. They worked together as one unit, one team because a win is for the group.
“Cross Country has taught us not only the meaning of determination and perseverance,” sophomore Michael Fiechter said, “but showed us the significance of teamwork.”
The support from fellow teammates helped the runners keep their spirits up as runners ran on weekends in different parks around New York City.
“It is a team effort,” sophomore Tiffany Evanego said. “Each of us works just as hard as the next, and that is what keeps our momentum moving forward.”
When races started, the entire team started off across the field together, enabling them to see that even if they finished alone, they began as one.
“We run because we enjoy not only the sport, but the team itself,” junior Alex Civitano said. “We work together to achieve our goals.”
Physically exhausting and mentally challenging -- that defines the cross country experience.