Adversity Faced: The Westminster Cross Country Teams

As the fall season began, the boys and girls cross country teams were very excited to compete. Each year, these teams have an opportunity for growth, friendship, and shared triumphs. However, this year’s start has been marred by an unexpected and violent microburst that swept through campus in August, damaging the very heart of their training ground.

The microburst, with its fierce winds, uprooted over 60 trees and devastated the picturesque landscape of Westminster’s 200-acre campus. Coach MacDonald has emphasized the destruction of their beloved home trail,  and a unique part of the team. Not only did the team lose its course, it also lost three home meets and an invitational. Understandably, the team was very frustrated, as it was a significant blow to the beauty of the landscape, and the training tied to it. 

Despite these challenges, both teams refused to let the circumstances define their season.The teams were forced to adapt quickly, finding new trails in the surrounding parks and running routes throughout the town. While practices have shifted off-campus, the spirit of teamwork and resilience remains unbroken. 

Cross country may be seen as an individual sport, Coach Dale has emphasized, but their team thrives on collaboration and support. She has described the goal of the year to cultivate a team-first mentality, especially now more than ever, when the spirit of the team was jeopardized from the microburst. This ethos of camaraderie has never been more vital, as the athletes adjust to a season with all meets occurring away from home. The experience of traveling together and cheering each other on in unfamiliar environments have begun to demonstrate that perhaps this has only deepened their bonds.

With the goal of achieving personal bests by the end of the season, the runners have embraced the opportunity for growth, both individually and as a collective. The league championship race looms at the season’s end, and with it comes the potential for each athlete to showcase their hard work. Coach MacDonald remains optimistic about the season ahead, reminding the team that while their home meets are lost, their aspirations have not diminished. He explained that the team is still focused on their goals. Most importantly, building a competitive team that exemplifies teamwork and continues to foster a positive culture in Westminster.

While the runners navigate these uncharted waters, they are also leaning on the history and values that have shaped the program since its inception under Richard Miller in 1972. The tradition of hard work, self-confidence, and long-lasting friendships continues to resonate. Whether tackling challenging terrain or celebrating each other’s victories, the team’s spirit remains strong.

As the season progresses, the Westminster cross country teams are poised to turn adversity into strength. With every step they take, they carry the legacy of those who came before them while forging their own path in this unpredictable journey. Each run, each practice, and each race away from home will serve as a reminder of their resilience and unwavering commitment to the sport and each other. In the face of challenges, they stand together, ready to rise above and meet the season head-on. They are also looking forward to a half marathon at the end of the year if the players are inclined. Be on the lookout for these teams!