Message from Coach Ray-

Well, here we are. Three weeks into our lockdown. It has been the first three weeks that I have done zero coaching in 23 years and am ready to get back in. To the seniors that lost their last track season, I am sorry. I am sorry that you do not get to reap the direct benefits of all your hard work this past offseason and will not get to fulfill your dreams this year whatever they may have been. I am sorry that you don't get to experience your last two months of high school. I am sorry for Coach Moeller who put in a ton of work to get you prepared and didn't get to coach. I know he was devastated for all of you. I am sorry for the underclassmen. I know you had a steller winter and were itching at the bit to see what improvements you had made.

Through all of this though, do not lose what is most important. As I have told you all so many times before, it is the process that matters the most. As Booker T Washington said it best, "Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome."

Now moving forward.

#1 and most important during the next two months. I would highly recommend until instructed by those in charge, I would NOT run in groups. I know this is difficult, but we are out of school for a reason, that is to be separated. Whether or not I agree with it, the more we listen, the quicker we get back to some normalcy.

#2 TRAIN!!!!!!!!!! I guarantee you that there are teams out there and individuals that are absolutely killing it right now. You will see the results of the next three months in the fall and late summer. I can't even imagine how much improvement all of you will have if you just train. Remember all it takes is you getting out of your house and running on your own. Cross-train when you can! YOU CAN DO IT!!!! I told my kids this the other day, " what matters is what you do when no one is watching." Everyone will know what you did that first day of summer running (whenever that is) and there is no hiding.

#3 I am here if you need me for anything. These are crazy times no doubt. If there is anything I can do for you , let me know. You just need to vent, or text, or whatever, I'm here. Reach out!!!

#4. 2020 season:

*The camp is still on as of now. It is scheduled for July 19-23.

*Summer running will be the same as last year: time and places

*Recruit guys to join. I will be getting in contact with some of the incoming freshmen. If you know any of them, reach out and talk to them. You guys are smart and know how we do things.

*Sponsorships are a must this year. I will be putting out all forms next month for xc. Start thinking about those now!

That is all for now. I miss each and every one of you guys and run your butts off!!