FAQs
What is the Oregon Track Club (OTC) Youth Cross Country program?
The OTC Youth Cross Country program is designed to fuel kids’ excitement and love for running. The goal is to give many more kids in the Eugene-Springfield and surrounding areas the opportunity to participate in this historic club, and be part of Eugene’s worldwide fame as TrackTown USA. It blends one of the area’s existing successful clubs, Shamrock, as well as adds a new outreach to the Springfield area, all under the OTC banner. The club will offer one training location at Alton Baker Park. A particularly unique aspect of the program will be that, in addition to regular coaching staff, the youth athletes will receive encouragement and coaching from “special guest” coaches, and other local celebrity runners.
Is this a competitive team/program?
Yes, this is a competitive team but all skill and experience levels are welcome. Beginners are very welcome and racing is never required.
What is your training philosophy for kids?
We believe kids should run, but we also believe they should play basketball, soccer, baseball, gymnastics and just overall be active. Our program has two scheduled runs/practices per week and an optional weekend run. This allows the kids to see fitness gains while still providing time to do other sports or activities. Running is a lifelong sport, we emphasize gradual steps in their progression. Kids will have training group and run an age-appropriate amount, regardless of skill. We would rather have kids hungry for more, rather than over doing it.
What is the age range to join the club?
Kids 9-14 years old can join the program, train and compete in the races.
How long is the season?
The full season will run September 4 - November 3.
September - Early November: consists of local developmental youth meets on Saturdays and/or a weekday. Some athletes may opt for this shorter season.
November - December: includes USATF state, regional and national level meets on Saturdays. The regional meet is held each November and alternates between Oregon and Washington, while the national meet is in early December and changes locations each year.
Participation in meets always optional.
*Those athletes who attend a school with a cross country program are encouraged to compete with their school’s team and may join the OTC youth program after their school season finishes in mid-to-late October.
Where do you practice, and how many days per week?
The club offers one training locations (Alton Baker Park - Twin Shelters). We will meet Monday/Wednesday evenings from 5:20-6:30pm.
Can I join anytime during the fall season?
Kids can join the team up until September 11th online and then anything after that will be on an as needs basis.
How much does it cost and how do I sign up?
The registration fee is $150 per athlete. With this fee, you get practices, local races, a team t-shirt, and an end of year celebration.
Are scholarships available?
We never want finances to prevent an athlete from joining our program. We do have a need-based scholarship fund to help off-set the cost. Contact info@oregontrackclub.com
Will coaches be trained in “SafeSport” and have background checks?
Yes, all coaches who work with youth as coaches must complete the SafeSport program and will be required to have a mandatory background check.
Are you a parent wanting to get involved with coaching OTC cross country?
We will offer a 50% youth registration discount for offering your time. To receive this discount, you must commit to:
2x weekly practices with a maximum of four missed practices
Attend and coach at least four of the race opportunities during the season
Be present and willing to coach all athletes, not just your child or children.
Have a positive, supportive, and engaging attitude.
Complete the Safesport Training
Do you want to be a parent volunteer this season?
If you are interested in being a parent volunteer this season, please email info@oregontrackclub.com. Being a parent volunteer could include: helping at check-in at the meets, providing snacks and drinks for the meets, being a bathroom monitor at practices, taking pictures at the races, and more!