In the heart of Natchez, lies the Cathedral Unit High School, where Coach Tommy Smith has devoted his time to the cross country team for ten years. The boys' cross country team has won four state titles in a row and is determined to keep their winning streak. Coach Tommy explains that the team's motto for this year is "Keep it alive for 5."
Senior Ryan Skates is a reoccurring overall state champion and has always had an excellent work ethic. Even with a runner placing first, it takes a whole team to win the state meet. Coach Tommy emphasizes that he focuses on coaching from the bottom up because it usually takes the 5th, 6th, and 7th to pick up the slack. Middle school runners are also important parts since they will one day be the ones on varsity.
Cathedral's summer training focuses on three things: mileage, speed/strength, and to have fun. "This is a unique year because it's hard to flow from track to cross country training since there was no season due to COVID-19. I'm prepared to e...
