News Summary

The Fairmont Elementary Junior Cardinals XC team kicks off its third year with excitement and growth, expanding from 18 to 32 participants. With practices twice a week and the introduction of competitive events, young athletes are developing their skills and love for running. Community events like the ‘Pregame Showdown’ boost team spirit, while support from Fairmont High School fosters a connection between ages. The future looks bright for Fairmont’s aspiring runners.

Fairmont Welcomes New Runners: Junior Cardinals XC Team Soars

The vibrant city of Fairmont is buzzing with excitement as the Fairmont Elementary Junior Cardinals XC team kicks off its third year, and it’s shaping up to be the best season yet! With a focus on children in grades four to six, this team is all about fostering a love for running while developing young athletes.

The brainchild of dedicated Fairmont residents Neil and Crystal Hanson, the Junior Cardinals program is a fantastic opportunity for kids to get a taste of cross country before they step into high school. Whether they’re seasoned runners or just starting out, the program welcomes all skill levels with open arms.

Growing Numbers and Strong Spirit

Since its launch back in 2023, the team has seen a significant increase in interest, jumping from just 18 participants to an impressive 32! This growth reflects in every grade group, with around 10 eager runners in each. Practices are held twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays, offering a structured yet fun environment for the kids. Each practice lasts about an hour and consists of a team meeting, warm-ups, tailored workouts, and ends with a lighthearted game to keep spirits high.

But it’s not just about honing skills! The Junior Cardinals have begun competing outside their regular practices, diving into their first events beyond the I-90 Invite this season. No longer just casual runners, the eager participants now have a competitive edge.

The Pregame Showdown and More Fun Events

On September 12, the excitement reached new heights with an inner-squad competition cleverly dubbed the “Pregame Showdown.” This event had four teams racing a mile-long distance right before a thrilling high school football game, a perfect blend of sports and community spirit. The junior runners showcased their hard work and dedication while awards were handed out to recognize the best performances by grade, gender, and overall results. A moment of pride for the kids and their families!

This season marked another milestone, as the team ventured out on their first trip to the Jackson County Central Tri For Health Meet. For many of the Junior Cardinals, this was an exciting opportunity to compete and connect with their peers from other areas, igniting a healthy competitive spirit.

Building Futures and Connections

The positive atmosphere created by Neil and Crystal ensures that every child can run at their own pace while still feeling like part of a team. Coach Andrew Moeller from the Fairmont High School cross country program has noted the ripple effect from the junior team, highlighting how the growing pool of talent among the Junior Cardinals is helping to boost junior high participation numbers — and that’s fantastic news for young athletes in Fairmont!

Moeller underscores the crucial nature of introducing young athletes to cross country. By participating in the Junior Cardinals, these children gain valuable insight, helping them make informed decisions about their involvement in sports as they transition into high school.

The high school program isn’t just watching from the sidelines; they’ve invested in the Junior Cardinals by purchasing jerseys and joining practices. This fosters a sense of community and connection between younger and older runners, creating a supportive environment.

A Bright Future Ahead

With a notable increase in participation within the junior high team linked to the Junior Cardinals, Fairmont is well on its way to nurturing future running stars. As the season unfolds, there is no doubt that the Fairmont Elementary Junior Cardinals XC team will continue to inspire and engage young athletes, proving that with a pair of running shoes and a supportive team, the sky’s the limit!

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