Monday, July 29, 2013

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Thank You is not enough...

Last winter I posted what I thought would be my last post on this blog. Since that time those who know me are aware that my family suffered a tremendous loss.  The past year was extraordinarily difficult and  the school year ended with great tragedy for us.  Thus, I don't want to sign off entirely until I express the immense feeling of gratitude I have for the team members, their families, alumni and the coaching staff of the Pattonville Cross Country team.  I can not begin to express just how much your support and prayers have meant to me and my family as we endured the past year and the loss of our daughter Delia. Finally, to see so many of you at my daughter's wake moved me beyond words and is a moment I will never forget.  To say thank you seems not nearly enough, but please know your support has meant the world to me and I am honored to know such outstanding people as yourselves.
As Cross Country season begins in a few weeks I will be intently watching from the sidelines and following my favorite team at PHS.  Best wishes for the new season and God Speed! 

Sincerely,
 S. Fader (formally Coach Fader)

Sunday, May 26, 2013

Pre-season Information


The official cross country season starts 11 weeks from tomorrow.  Your dedication over the next 11 weeks will determine how successful you will be during the cross country season.  Every day you will face a simple question, "Am I going to run today?"  How will you answer?


MINI CAMP –Our Season Starts Now! – The most important meetings of the summer – Be There!
Where: Creve Coeur Park (upper level off Dorsett Rd. - gravel lot by the tennis courts)
When:   Tuesday, May 28 – Friday, May 31, 9 AM – 10:30 AM each morning

What:  This is an instructional camp for new runners and a training camp for veterans
Topics will include: advice on training, stretching, running mechanics, nutrition, shoe info, racing, motivation and running fun.  We will also pay special attention to setting goals for the summer and racing season.  Get your XC season off to a good start and BE THERE!
Specific details will also be provided about other summer events such Wednesday night runs.
Expense: None, it’s FREE!
What you need to bring:  - proof of insurance (photocopy of insurance card) for new members.
        - water bottle
                                            -running shoes and dressed to run
                                            - a friend interested in joining the team!

Wednesday Night Runs –June 5, 12, 19, 26 / July 10, 17, 24 (Check the team blog for updates)
            – Informal weekly group runs and fun !
                - meet at 6:45 pm – BE PROMPT – Run starts at 7:00 sharp
- Locations: meet at Creve Coeur Park (upper level- gravel lot by the tennis courts)
-This is a “group run”. The goal is to run together, although we will break into sub groups to accommodate different ability levels

Sunday Morning Long Runs – June 16, 23, 30 / July 14, 21, 28
– Informal weekly group long runs and fun !
                - meet at 6:45 AM – BE PROMPT – Run starts at 7:00 AM sharp
- Locations: meet at Creve Coeur Falls

                                               
1st day of practice is August 12th, 2013 (2:30 PM – 5 PM) High School Stadium
         -You must have a completed sports physical
         - Bring your Training Log

Monday, February 4, 2013

How Good is Your Running Form?

Big River Running Company is offering 3 different "Good Form Running" clinics in February and March.  They describe the clinic as follows: 

The Good Form Running clinic provides an overview of what we consider the most important components of efficient running form. We present key points in a simple and easy to apply manner while giving individual feedback and attention. The objective is to provide GFR attendees with the necessary tools to run easier, faster and injury free.  


Sounds good, right?!  Check out the link for more info:http://www.bigriverrunning.com/goodform.php

Thursday, January 24, 2013

2013 USA XC Championships are in 1 WEEK!

The USA Cross Country Championships are Saturday, February 2nd at Forest Park.  Check out the link (http://www.usacrosscountrychampionships.com/) for more info.  Hopefully the weather will be good and tons of fans will show up to cheer on the racers!  I will be a volunteer for the event; see you there!

Sunday, January 6, 2013

2013 and change is good.

 I've always believed new years are exciting as they bring opportunities for renewed goals and a chance to start fresh. Frequently this means change.  As such, I'm sharing a recent decision that I would have preferred to deliver directly, but no longer have that option. After much thought (honestly several years worth) I have decided to hang up my coaching hat. At this point in life I need to adjust the balance of my time and energy demands to spend more time with my family and pursue some interests that I've put on hold while coaching.  This has been a difficult decision and I will greatly miss the time spent getting to know and working with such amazing people as yourselves (athletes, families and coaches).  I am also very thankful to have had the opportunity to witness the personal growth and accomplishments of many outstanding young people as well as be a part of the team work, positive lifestyle, and competition that our sport provides.  I'll always be a fan of the Pirate runners and I see great things happening for the team under the leadership of the current coaching staff, minus myself.
 I hope you all enjoy the new year and an opportunity for a fresh start. Best of luck to the Pirate Cross Country team for the 2013 Cross Country season and beyond.

Sincerely,
 Coach Fader

PS.  While this is my last post, the blog remains as well as the rest of your coaching staff.  Watch here in the future for further announcements concerning the 2013 Cross Country season.

Sunday, December 2, 2012

Winter is for Runners !

WooHoo!  December started off strangely warm, but variety like that is what makes the winter season great.  Notice I didn't say off-season. Real runner's run because they love to run.  Racing is just one way to enjoy the activity.  The beauty of being a runner is that we have "seasons" for competing and seasons  to change it up and enjoy other aspects of the sport.  Winter is a great time to enjoy your runs in a way not available any other time of the year.

   Trail running in the midwest is fantastic in the winter.  Trails are usually quiet and uncrowded. Plus the bugs and itchy plants are all gone. Those trails you ran in the summer months now offer a fresh new winterscape for you to explore. You are also very likely to see deer and other critters, but keep an eye out for areas where hunters might not be too excited about sharing the trails.

   Some "fair weather" runners will seek indoor torture running devices when the thermometer drops. Truthfully, your body will quickly adjust to cold temperatures and you will likely feel much better than you would on a hot summer day while running outside.  You can always wear more clothing, but you can't always cool off.  Also, given we live in the midwest we are almost guaranteed a variety of running conditions throughout the season to keep it interesting.  A good rule of thumb for clothing choices is to dress like you would if it was twenty degrees warmer and wear layers to adjust if needed. In particular, a hat and gloves go a long way to finding your comfort zone on chilly days.

  Finally, to make the most of your winter running you may want to set some goals.  Mileage goals or late winter races (focusing more on distance than speed) may be good categories for such goals. You can find race calendars on the running shops websites listed in the side bar.

Enjoy the winter season and stay tuned for information about the SNOWFLAKE 50 WINTER BREAK CHALLENGE coming soon.

Now to geek out on some winter running videos.  Enjoy..then go run.


Coach Z: This one is for you.


No... I'm not trying to grow my beard like this.






Monday, November 5, 2012

Middle School Meet- Wednesday Nov. 7

Attention Team members:  We need you help to support our middle school XC teams and the growth of our own team.  This wednesday we will need you to work as course marshalls and as a cheering section.  We will also need help to set up the course a bit ahead of time.  Your participation is expected as a PHS XC team member.

Here is the plan:

When: Wednesday, November 7

Where: O'Connor Park -We have a bus to provide transportation, but you may drive if you prefer.

Times: All team members should meet at 2:30 in their coaches rooms. We will arrive at the park about 2:45, set up the course , and the race will start at 4:00.  The bus will return to the school by 5:00 pm within plenty of time for anyone who needs to take the activity bus home. 

See you Wednesday after school.

State Results

Congrats to our two State meet contenders who took on a challenging course and the highest competition our state has to offer.  Will finished 116th in 17:37.  Sarah finished 152nd in 22:08  Both ran well given their first trip to the "big-time race".  Both also learned the ropes of racing with our states finest runners and came away with a quality experience that should serve them well for a return trip next year.

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Finishing Up 2012 - State, Middle School Meet and Awards Night

Another great season has almost come to an end, but there are some very important details to go over before we can call this journey complete.  Please pass this info on to your teammates to make sure it gets out to everyone.

MO State XC Championships - Congrats to Sarah and Will for making it to the big race. While we can't shuttle everyone down to Jefferson City, if you can arrange a ride feel free to join us at the meet and cheer on our Pirate runners as they compete against the best runners in the state.   (FYI -There is an entry fee of $7.00 to watch the meet and dogs are not allowed on the golf course)
Missouri State Championship Info. 
Race Times: Class 4 Boys: 9:35 am (Will's Race), Class 4 Girls: 10:35 am (Sarah's race)
Location -Oak Hills Golf center, 932 Ellis Blvd, Jefferson City, MO 65101
Directions: take 70 west, then US 54 West to the Ellis Blvd exit, take a left on Ellis Blvd and go straight over the overpass and a couple miles down you will find the course on your right- Parking is where ever you can find it.
MSHSAA website with State meet info: here

Pattonville Middle School Meet

The Middle School Cross Country meet which was cancelled last week has been rescheduled for Wednesday, November 7th.  Only the Pattonville Middle School teams will be competing, but we need your help to create a positive experience for many who will hopefully be your teammates next year. Attendance by all PHS team members is expected.  Please let your coach know if you are participating in a winter sport and are unable to attend. 

When: Wednesday, November 7
Where: O'Connor Park -(we are checking bus transportation, watch here for update)
Time: We will arrive at the park about 3:15, the race will start at 4:00



Awards Night 
2012 Cross Country Awards Information
What ?
An evening to celebrate the Cross Country season, share memories, present awards, plan for the future, and a slide show to wrap it all up. We will enjoy pizza and a few desserts while giving out the awards.
When ?Monday, November 19 beginning at 6:00pm.
Tentative Schedule
6:00-7:30pm Individual and special awards
7:30-8:00pm move to auditorium for slide show
Where ?Meet in the PHS cafeteria for eats and awards. We will move to the Auditorium for the slide show after the awards. (No food/drink in the auditorium, please)
What should I do?- Show up with family and friends
- girls team - bring your fun award for your designated team member  Also, If you can not attend the awards banquet please notify your Coach so we can arrange to have your person still receive your special award.- bring a dessert (optional)
Dress?Nice, but casual
**You must have turned in your sweats and uniform to receive your award! **


END-OF-SEASON REMINDERS

- Team pictures have arrived.  Please stop by your coaches room to pick up your order.  Those not picked up will be available on awards night.

Uniforms and sweats should be clean and turned in directly to your Coach by November 1st. They must be in a bag with a tag clearly identifying your name. DO NOT leave them in one of our rooms laying around if we are not there.

- Team Members and Parents - Soon it will be time to assemble a slide show for the Awards night. We will gladly provide a disc or flash drive if anyone has photos from the season they would like to share . Thank you very much to those who have provided great pics already.


- Stay tuned to the blog over the winter months...soon I will post the details for a winter break challenge...you might also find some motivational videos, winter road race opportunities and info on the National Cross Country Championships being held again this year in Forest Park this February. A couple of us braved the frigid temps to watch the races last year and I'll testify it was totally worth losing a few toes to frostbite....slight exaggeration used for impact
That about does it. See ya out on the roads and trails....you are still running right ?...remember we do this because it's FUN (type II).. and this is one of the best times of the year to be outside running. Enjoy!

2012 Sectional Results

Saturday mornings, grassy parks, changing leaves, cool temps, and hard racing are the essentials of a perfect cross country meet and all were present this past weekend at our sectional meet. The races were fast and our 3 Sectional competitors gave their best shot at qualifying for the state meet. Congratulations to Nathan for the completion of an excellent season. A big CONGRATULATIONS goes out to Sarah and Will as they both ran PR's and qualified to compete next weekend in the Missouri State Championships! 
Best Wishes at State Sarah and Will !


Sunday, October 21, 2012

News of the week: Oct. 22- 27, 2012

District Meet Results - Our District meet last friday proved to be a good day for the Pirates. The boys team finished out the season with a very respectable 6th place finish in a tough district.  Will and Nathan both placed within the top 30, earning them a spot on the line at our Sectional meet next weekend.
On the Girls side we did not have a full team in the race this year.  However team work was still present as the girls team members came out in force to support their teammates with banners and bellowing cheers along the course.  The result of this outstanding display of team effort combined with tough racing by Sarah and Sammie led to PR's by both runners and Sarah will also move on to Sectionals.
Best of luck to Sarah, Will and Nathan as they compete at Sectionals for a chance at going to State!

All team members are encouraged to come and support our runners at the Sectional meet saturday. A bus will be provided. 
Here are the details:

Class 4 Sectional 2 Meet
Date: Saturday Oct. 27
Location: Forest Park- Central Fields
Time Schedule:
- Meet at PHS at 8:15
- Bus leaves at 8:30
- Girls Varsity Race 10:00 am
- Boys Varsity Race 10:45 am
- Awards 12:00pm 
The top 4 teams and top 30 individuals in each race will advance to the State Championships.
We should return to PHS about 1:00pm

Important reminders for the end of the 2012 XC season

- the Middle School meet was cancelled due to inclement weather last week.  We are working with the Middle Schools to reschedule if possible.  At this time we have no information, but keep watching the blog for updates.  It would be great to have your help and support our Middle School XC program.

- Drummond is having their annual Harvest run and some of you have volunteered to help.  Please see your coach ASAP to get a field trip form for next friday.

- Team pictures arrived last friday afternoon.  Please stop by your coaches room to pick up your order.  Those not picked up will be available on awards night.

Uniforms and sweats should be clean and turned in directly to your Coach by November 1st. They must be in a bag with a tag clearly identifying your name. DO NOT leave them in one of our rooms laying around if we are not there.

- Team Members and Parents - Soon it will be time to assemble a slide show for the Awards night. We will gladly provide a disc or flash drive if anyone has photos from the season they would like to share . We could also use some music suggestions (unless ya like Coach Fader's "old timey" stuff, and I think Coach Simmons likes Disco)

Girls Team members- don't forget to put together a "special award" for the teammate you selected. Coaches may be able to help if you need ideas. Also, If you can not attend the awards banquet please notify your Coach so we can arrange to have your person still receive your special award.


Saturday, November 3rd - Missouri State Championships Meet - Oak Hills Golf Course, Jefferson City (only for qualifying teams or individuals)

Monday, November 19th - PHS Cross Country Awards Night 6-8pm (more details coming soon)

Sunday, October 14, 2012

News of the Week: Oct. 15- 20, 2012

Practice Week of Oct. 15th- 20th
Daily Practice time is 2:30-5:25 Mon-Thurs and 2:30 -4:50 on *Fridays (unless otherwise noted)- Meet in your coach's classroom (Boys - Coach Simmons) (Girls - Coach Zoll)
* The activity bus only runs at 5:00pm on friday
Mon. 15th - Border War Meet (Details below)
Tues. 16th - Carpool to O'Connor (meet prep for Middle School Meet)
Wed. 17th - Car pool to O'Connor to host a meet for the middle schools- (you will need to arrange for transportation home)
Thurs 18th - PHS campus -Varsity team only
Friday 19th - PHS campus- Varsity team only
Saturday 20th- District 4 Meet - McNair Park (Details Below) All team members are encouraged to ride the bus and support our Varsity teams at the meet.

Border War Cross Country Meet Info.
Location: McNair Park
Date: Friday October 15 (rescheduled from Oct. 5)
  Meet in your coaches room at 2:30 pm.  The bus leaves at 2:45.
Race Schedule: 
4:15 Girls (JV and Varsity races run together) 5000 meter course

4:45 Boys (JV and Varsity races run together) 5000 meter course

Driving Directions to McNair Park:
I-70 west
Take the First Capital exit and turn right off the exit ramp
Left on West Clay
Right on Droste
Follow Droste until you see the park entrance on the right.


District 4 meet - Oct. 20th 
The top 4 teams and top 30 individuals move on to the Sectional Meet
Meet in commons at 8:30am, bus leaves at 8:40am.
Location: McNair Park
Race Schedule
10:00 Varsity Girls (30 medals)
10:45 Varsity Boys (30 medals)


Driving Directions to McNair Park:
I-70 west
Take the First Capital exit and turn right off the exit ramp
Left on West Clay
Right on Droste
Follow Droste until you see the park entrance on the right.


Important reminders and dates for the remainder of the 2012 XC season

Uniforms and sweats should be clean and turned in directly to your Coach by November 1st. They must be in a bag with a tag clearly identifying your name. DO NOT leave them in one of our rooms laying around if we are not there.

- Team Members and Parents - Soon it will be time to assemble a slide show for the Awards night. We will gladly provide a disc or flash drive if anyone has photos from the season they would like to share . We could also use some music suggestions (unless ya like Coach Fader's "old timey" stuff, and I think Coach Simmons likes Disco)

Girls Team members- don't forget to put together a "special award" for the teammate you selected. Coaches may be able to help if you need ideas. Also, If you can not attend the awards banquet please notify your Coach so we can arrange to have your person still receive your special award.


Saturday, Oct. 27 - Sectional meet - Forest Park (only for qualifying teams or individuals)

Saturday, November 3rd - Missouri State Championships Meet - Oak Hills Golf Course, Jefferson City (only for qualifying teams or individuals)

Monday, November 19th - PHS Cross Country Awards Night (details coming soon)



Sunday, October 7, 2012

News of the Week: Oct. 8 - 13, 2012

Practice Week of Oct. 8th- 13th
Daily Practice time is 2:30-5:25 Mon-Thurs and 2:30 -4:50 on *Fridays (unless otherwise noted)- Meet in your coach's classroom (Boys - Coach Simmons) (Girls - Coach Zoll)
* The activity bus only runs at 5:00pm on friday
Mon. 8th - PHS campus
Tues. 9th - Carpool to Creve Coeur Park (falls)
Wed. 10th - Car pool to Creve Coeur (upper level)
Thurs 11th - PHS campus - Girls team practice cancelled (rest day) 
Friday 12th - PHS campus
Saturday 13th- Suburban North Conference Meet (Details Below)

Suburban North Conference Championships - Oct. 13th

Meet in commons at 7:30am, bus leaves at 7:45am.
Location: Sioux Passage Park
Race Schedule
9:15 Varsity Girls (15 medals)
10:00 Varsity Boys (15 medals)
10:35 JV Boys and Girls (common start, boys and girls will be sorted at finish line)


Directions to Sioux Passage County Park
- I -270 North/East
- Take Exit 25B (go North) Lindberg
- Left on Old Halls Ferry Rd.
- Right on Vaile Ave
- Left on Old Jamestown Rd
Follow Old Jamestown for just under 1/2 mile and look for the park entrance on your right.
- Once inside the park, follow the park road straight until you reach the gravel lot at the base of a huge hill.

Important dates for the remainder of the 2012 XC season

Monday, Oct. 15 -  Border War meet- McNair park - rescheduled from last week 

Wednesday, Oct. 17 - MIddle School XC Meet (O'Connor Park) We are hosting the meet for the middle schools.  All team members are expected to participate in helping with the meet. We will also have practice prior to the meet.

Saturday, Oct. 20- District meet - McNair Park- (only Varsity race)

Saturday, Oct. 27 - Sectional meet - Forest Park (only for qualifying teams or individuals)

Saturday, November 3rd - Missouri State Championships Meet - Oak Hills Golf Course, Jefferson City (only for qualifying teams or individuals)

Monday, November 19th - PHS Cross Country Awards Night 

Friday, October 5, 2012

Border War XC Meet Postponed

The Border War XC meet has been postponed for the night of Friday, October 5th.  Please watch the blog for updates as they come about the meet and other information.

Update:  As of 3:10 PM on Friday, there is still no word about the meet being rescheduled.  Try to get in an easy run of 30 minutes today if the weather permits.  Updates will be made to the blog as soon as information is passed to us.

Sunday, September 30, 2012

News of the Week: October 1 - 6

Practice Week of Oct.1st- 6th
Daily Practice time is 2:30-5:25 mon-thurs and 2:30 -4:50 on *fridays (unless otherwise noted)
Meet in your coach's classroom (Boys - Coach Simmons) (Girls - Coach Zoll)
* The activity bus only runs at 5:00pm on friday

Mon. 1st - carpool to O'Connor park 
Tues. 2nd - Bus to McNair park for Border War course preview
Wed. 3rd - PHS Campus.... finished by 4:15 activity bus (parent/ teacher conferences)
Thurs 4th - PHS Campus...finished by 4:15 activity bus (parent/teacher conferences)
Friday 5th - No School - Border War XC meet - Meet in commons at 2:45. Bus leaves at 3:00pm

Saturday Oct. 8 or Sunday Oct. 9 be sure to get a long run in one of these days. See your coach for specifics.

Border War Cross Country Meet Info.
Location: McNair Park
Date: Friday October 5th
  Meet at the commons at 2:30 pm.  The bus leaves at 2:45.
Race Schedule: 
4:15 Girls (JV and Varsity races run together) 5000 meter course

PHS girls team members will need to run under 25 minutes to be eligible to compete in our District meet on Oct. 20.
4:45 Boys (JV and Varsity races run together) 5000 meter course

Driving Directions to McNair Park:
I-70 west
Take the First Capital exit and turn right off the exit ramp
Left on West Clay
Right on Droste
Follow Droste until you see the park entrance on the right.


Upcoming Events:
Saturday Oct. 13
- Suburban North Conference championships -Sioux Passage Park

Wednesday Oct. 17 - Pattonville Middle School Meet (during normal practice time- participation required) We are not running, but will host the meet for the Middle School at O'Connor park