Cross Country

Welcome to the Fountain City Elementary and Gresham Middle School cross-country program. The program provides a fun, inclusive, and development‑focused running experience for 3rd through 8th grade students. Hosted in partnership with the Fountain City Recreation Commission, the program welcomes co‑ed participation with no roster limits, ensuring every interested athlete has the opportunity to train, compete, and grow. All athletes are encouraged to participate, regardless of experience.

Program Objectives

• Fun & engagement — Create an enjoyable environment that encourages a lifelong appreciation for running and fitness.
• Skill development — Build endurance, improve running form, and strengthen overall athletic ability.
• Teamwork & sportsmanship — Promote positive interactions, encouragement, and respect among all athletes.
• Welcoming participation — Foster a supportive team culture where runners of all experience levels feel valued and confident.

Program & Season Structure

The program participates in the Knoxville Youth Athletics (KYA) cross country season, which typically runs 8 weeks from August through early October.

• Open registration — No tryouts; all athletes are welcome.
• Practice up to twice per week on school campus or a nearby park.
• Training focuses on endurance, pacing, race strategy, and confidence building.
• Athletes will compete in approximately five meets all held within
• Knox County, keeping travel manageable for families.
• Events include grade‑level races, team scoring, and championship‑style competition.
  • Elementary athletes run in a 1-mile race
  • Middle school athletes run in a 2-mile race
• Team communication will primarily be via TeamSnap, a free app downloaded on iOS and Android devices or accessed on any desktop or mobile device with a modern web browser.

Equipment & Uniforms

Athletes will receive a team jersey for competition, which is returned at the conclusion of the season.

Runners must provide:

• Running shoes that are appropriate for training
• Comfortable socks and running shorts (avoid cotton)
• 20-32 oz. water bottle for practices and meets

Useful but not required.

• Sunscreen for sunny afternoon practices
• Small practice bag to hold shoes, a water bottle, snacks, and personal items.
• Lightweight rain jacket

Registration

• Parents or guardians are required to create an account on FountainCitySports.org to register their child for the season. To create an account and/or register, click the registration button above.
• Registration for the season typically opens by August.
• Limited scholarships are available for athletes who, without financial assistance, would be unable to participate in FCRC sports programs. More details, including eligibility, can be found in the scholarship application.

Coaches & Volunteers

The Fountain City Elementary team, Pepcats, is led by coaches Chris Alsip and Cody Standifer

The Gresham Middle School team, the Gladiators, is led by Head Coach Ander Myers.

Communication/Contacts

Open and effective communication is essential for a successful experience. We communicate through various channels, including TeamSnap, email, our website, and social media platforms. It is the responsibility of participants to stay informed and regularly check for updates.

For any questions, concerns, or additional information, please refer to the following contact information:

• FCRC Website: https://www.fountaincitysports.org/
• FCRC Email: info@fountaincitysports.org
• Phone:  Robbie Cook, 865-207-0349