ABOUT JUNIOR CAVS XC
The Junior Cavaliers Cross Country team was born out of a desire to give young athletes in the Upper Cumberland area an opportunity to run, grow, and compete together. What began as a small group of students and passionate parents has quickly grown into a thriving team focused on character, commitment, and community. Founded with a vision by Chris and Jo Mussard to prepare middle school runners for high school success and lifelong healthy habits, our team is about more than just miles—it’s about developing confidence, discipline, and friendships that last far beyond the finish line.
When you join the Junior Cavalier Cross Country team, you’re not just signing up for a season—you’re joining a community that values hard work, positivity, and personal growth. Led by Coaches Blake and Stephanie Shearer, our team is built around encouragement, teamwork, and helping every runner reach their full potential.
The season runs from August to mid-October, with practices held three times a week focusing on aerobic and anaerobic training, strength and core development, and customized workouts tailored to each runner’s progress. Varsity spots are fluid and earned through effort, not just ability, with opportunities for both varsity and JV runners to grow and compete.
We kick off the summer with training sessions twice a week and encourage participation in our 100 and 200-Mile Club Challenges to help athletes gradually build their base mileage. Expect a mix of course runs and hill training, and always bring water and a towel!
With 7–9 meets scheduled—mostly on Saturday mornings—timeliness, commitment, and communication are key. Parents will play an important role in transportation and support, while runners will learn discipline, mental toughness, and the thrill of competing.
It won’t always be easy, but we promise: it’s worth it. Because in cross country, it doesn’t get easier—you get faster!
WHAT TO EXPECT
