JH Cross Country Turns Off Day into Team-Bonding Celebration

September 7, 2026 – Grace Junior High cross country used its off week to build team culture rather than compete. With Friday scheduled as an off day, athletes began planning something special earlier in the week.

On Thursday morning, the team invited both coaches to a potluck breakfast the following day. They also wanted to play a game of Ultimate Football and decided to organize their own practice around it. On Friday, athletes showed up with a full breakfast spread, including fruit, cinnamon rolls, donuts and juice. Without jerseys to distinguish teams, one side wore fake mustaches for the game.

The team spent much of the morning playing Ultimate Football before settling in for a picnic breakfast, enjoying the sunrise, good food and friendly competition together.

Coaches said the morning reflected the positive culture the team has built this season, with athletes taking the initiative to invest in one another. The coaching staff is looking forward to seeing how the team continues to grow throughout the rest of the season.