Our Elementary Cross Country program was started eight years ago by former high school coach Tim Galati to introduce elementary-aged students to the sport, with a chance to compete in a culminating meet at the end of the season. Initially open to 4th and 5th graders, the program now includes 3rd graders and a few exceptional 2nd graders. Practices are run four days a week throughout the first nine weeks by coaches Dan Miller (Green Meadows), Kristy Miller (Blue Ridge), Nicole Pompei (Suncrest), and Nallely Alanis (Suncrest). The program emphasizes both individual achievement and team scoring, teaching runners that their efforts contribute to the team’s success.
Recently, the program has grown significantly with more competitive opportunities. Green Meadows students who meet qualifying standards can participate in the Indiana Middle School Cross Country Championships, a prestigious event held at the Lavern Gibson Championship Cross Course in Terre Haute. In fall 2023, the program hosted the first-ever elementary meets at Green Meadows and Suncrest and participated in invitational events with schools from Lafayette and surrounding areas. What started as one or two meets per season now includes six to eight meets with other schools.
“This program has been incredibly rewarding,” says Mr. Miller. “I enjoy coaching alongside my wife, and we’ve developed a friendly rivalry with Mrs. Pompei at Suncrest.” Mrs. Miller shares this enthusiasm, working to spark interest in younger students at Blue Ridge and celebrating former runners’ achievements by attending middle and high school meets. The program reached a milestone when Christopher Angeles, one of its first participants, competed at the state meet as an FHS senior who now aspires to run in college. With minimal costs (just practice time, running shoes, and optional uniforms) this program continues to thrive, inspiring new young runners each year.
Photos courtesy of Jimmy Ramos, Kristy Miller, and Suncrest Elementary
