Bringing our scholars to cross-country meets on weekends has become a highlight, not only for them but for us as teachers as well. These events aren’t just about running; they’re about the thrill of the journey, the joy of discovery, and breaking down boundaries in a sport that’s long been perceived as exclusive. I want to share what these weekend meets mean to our scholars, the reactions we encounter, and why I hope other schools join us in this experience that’s all about accessibility.
The Journey: Anticipation and Excitement
For our scholars, the adventure begins the moment we gather on a chilly Saturday morning, wrapped up warm and buzzing with excitement. The coach journey is an event in itself—filled with laughter, encouragement, and the infectious energy that only young people can create. For many, these weekend meets are more than just races; they’re mini expeditions, a chance to explore new places, be part of something different, and share an experience outside the routine of the school week.
Arriving at the Meet: A Different World
When we step off the coach, our scholars’ faces light up as they take in the scene around them. Many are meeting competitors for the first time, surrounded by other runners, often accompanied by family members. While some of our scholars’ families can’t be there, it’s not a matter of disinterest. For many families, there are practical barriers—such as work schedules, transport challenges, or other weekend commitments. The reality is that family support for our scholars is strong; it simply looks different, with families supporting from afar and entrusting us to guide and encourage their children at the meet.
Innocent to these nuances, our scholars don’t notice what we teachers do: the curious, sometimes surprised glances from onlookers as we rally our group and talk them through the course. For our scholars, this is simply an exciting new experience—they’re proud to represent their school and thrilled to be part of the day.
Recognition from the Organisers
One particular weekend, as our scholars prepared to line up, the course organiser came over to us, smiling warmly. They commended us for bringing our scholars out, especially on a weekend, and added, “It’s brilliant to see you here, especially as cross-country is often seen as a ‘middle-class’ sport.” That simple acknowledgment struck a deep chord. It was an affirmation that our presence was not just noticed but celebrated—that by bringing our scholars here, we were challenging expectations and showing that cross-country participation is for everyone.
It’s not about fitting a mould; it’s about passion, determination, and creating an environment where everyone feels welcome. Sports like cross-country shouldn’t be reserved for certain groups—they should be open to anyone who wants to give it a go, and that’s a message our scholars are proudly embodying.
A Call to Other Schools: Let’s Do This Together
I’d love to see other schools join us in bringing scholars to weekend meets, even if it’s just a few times each term. The benefits go far beyond physical fitness. These outings foster relationships and create memories that bring scholars and teachers closer together. When scholars see their teachers giving up weekends to support them, it builds a bond that extends beyond the classroom. It tells them they matter—that they belong in any space they choose to enter—and that their school stands firmly behind them.
To other schools, I encourage you to give this a go. Let’s open the door wider, create more inclusive experiences, and show our scholars that sports like cross-country are for everyone. It’s about expanding horizons, building confidence, and helping them feel a part of something bigger. Our role as educators is to open doors, and these weekend meets are one way to show scholars that they are welcome wherever they set foot.
Beyond the Race: More Than Just Running
For our scholars, these events go beyond just running. They’re learning about resilience, self-belief, and discovering their own strength. Many had never considered cross-country before, but now, these weekend meets have become a part of their lives, a chance to challenge themselves, represent their school, and feel the pride of being part of a team.
These meets remind us that sport can unite us, break down barriers, and challenge stereotypes. Each time our scholars line up at the start, they’re not only running a race but helping to redefine who belongs on that starting line. They’re part of a new narrative that says cross-country, and sport in general, is for everyone.
Conclusion: The Power of Presence
Taking our scholars to these cross-country meets is about so much more than competition. It’s about creating an environment that embraces everyone, expanding their sense of possibility, and proving that they can be part of any sport, anywhere. The looks of pride on their faces, the laughs on the coach, the support they give one another—these moments remind us of the power of simply showing up. Our scholars are learning that they belong in every space they choose to step into, and that alone makes every early morning and long journey more than worth it.
Each meet, we’re not just going to a race; we’re stepping closer to inclusion, empowerment, and creating new moulds in a sport that’s been shaped by tradition. Cross-country may have once been seen as a “middle-class” sport, but every time our scholars lace up their trainers and take to the course, they’re helping redefine what that means. And in doing so, they’re making this sport truly accessible for all.
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