News Summary

The Michigan High School Athletic Association is launching its inaugural postseason cross country events for junior high and middle school athletes this October. Spanning eight regional sites, the initiative aims to inspire young runners and enhance their athletic experience. Approximately 650 schools can participate, with each team allowed to enter up to 20 runners in thrilling two-mile races. Team trophies and medals for individual top finishers will reward the competitors. This development marks a significant step towards fostering youth athletics in Michigan.

Exciting News for Young Runners in Michigan!

Attention, sports enthusiasts! Big changes are coming for junior high and middle school cross-country runners across Michigan. The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) is setting the stage for the very first postseason events dedicated to junior high and middle school students in cross country history! That’s right—these future stars will have their moment to shine like never before!

Postseason Events Set to Take Place This October

Mark your calendars for October 2021, as the MHSAA prepares to host these thrilling events at eight regional sites. The announcement was made after the Representative Council approved the idea during its Spring 2020 meeting, which stemmed from a recommendation by the Junior High/Middle School Committee. This initiative is all about encouraging young athletes to continue their athletic journey into high school and beyond.

Who’s Eligible?

Approximately 650 junior highs and middle schools that are part of the MHSAA community will have the chance to participate. Schools can bring out their best runners, with each team allowed to enter up to 20 participants in each race based on school size. So whether your school is large or small, there’s a place for everyone to compete!

How Does It Work?

One of the fantastic features of these new postseason regional meets is that they won’t count against the maximum of 10 events that teams are permitted to participate in during the regular season. Each regional race will consist of a brisk two-mile course—perfect for both seasoned runners and those just getting started.

Exciting Race Day!

The events will see two races held at each site—one for the girls and one for the boys. Teams will race on specific weekends in October, with dates already lined up. Here’s the run-down:

  • Zone 1: Saturday, Oct. 16, hosted by Portage Central High School at Portage West Middle School.
  • Zone 2: Saturday, Oct. 23, hosted by Hudson High School at Hudson High School.
  • Zone 3: Saturday, Oct. 23, hosted by Macomb Dakota High School at Macomb Dakota High School.
  • Zone 4: Saturday, Oct. 16, hosted by Midland High School at Northwood University.
  • Zone 5: Saturday, Oct. 23, hosted by Carson City-Crystal High School at Carson City-Crystal High School.
  • Zone 6: Friday, Oct. 29, hosted by Grand Rapids Public Schools at University Prep Academy.
  • Zone 7: Saturday, Oct. 23, hosted by Gaylord High School at Michaywe Golf Course.
  • Zone 8: Friday, Oct. 22, hosted by Marquette High School at Gentz Homestead Golf Course.

Let the Best Teams Shine!

At each regional event, teams will be competing fiercely for the top honors. Team championship trophies will be awarded to the winning boys’ and girls’ teams, making this a highly competitive showcase of talent! And for those individual standouts, the top 20 finishers in each race will walk away with medals to commemorate their fantastic achievement. It’s an excellent way for these budding athletes to receive recognition for all their hard work and dedication!

A Step Towards a Bright Athletic Future

The introduction of postseason cross country events for junior high and middle schoolers is a leap forward in making athletics a celebrated part of the school experience. The MHSAA believes that by investing in these young athletes, we can create unforgettable experiences that not only bring immediate joy but also encourage them to continue participating in sports throughout their high school years.

So, whether you’re a runner, a parent, or just a fan of youth sports, keep an eye on these events as they unfold in October! With a little bit of preparation and lots of enthusiasm, this is bound to be a spectacular first season of junior high and middle school cross country postseason events!

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