Sign-ups open for PR cross country; first practice Monday

PRIEST RIVER — There are a lot of unknowns entering this fall sports season, but one thing is certain — the Priest River cross country team is looking for athletes to join their squad.

“I know that it is a crazy year and a crazy world right now,” Priest River cross country head coach Lance Clark wrote in an email, “but it is my hope that all goes back to normal and that we all can enjoy each other’s company while sharing the great team and group experiences that we get through the sport of cross country.”

Clark is entering his 17th season as the Spartans coach and he is searching for kids that want a challenge while being a part of a fun atmosphere.

“Our goal is to provide great experiences throughout the season while being there for our athletes when they need us,” he wrote.

Last year, the girls squad finished seventh at state led by district champion Annika Rantala, who capped off a stellar season by placing 10th as an individual. The boys fell short of making it to state in 2019, but Clark is expecting his young runners to take a step forward this fall.

Outside of practices and races, the team does trial runs every Sunday at locations around North Idaho and the Spartans are in the process of planning a trip to Silverwood Theme Park.

Kids can register to join the team by going to www.planeths.com. An athlete and their parents both need to go online and register in order for the athlete to be cleared for sports.

All freshmen, first year athletes and juniors need to get a physical at the doctor’s office in order to be cleared to participate in the team’s first practice which is set for 3 p.m. Monday at the PRLHS track.