Upstate Running Club Youth Cross Country Team – Fall 2026

The Upstate Running Club Youth Team is excited to announce its Fall Cross Country Season for athletes ages 7–14.

This developmental and competitive program will meet twice each week and provide athletes with opportunities to compete in local, regional, and future national-level competitions. The program has been established as a FREE service for area youth athletes who are committed to pursuing personal growth through consistent training, teamwork, and competition. The Upstate Running Club proudly supports more than 100 youth athletes each year through seasonal training programs. Each season includes structured practices, local and regional competitions, and team-building activities designed to develop both athletic ability and personal character.

Our mission is to equip young athletes with the tools needed to succeed at the next level of competition while fostering confidence, resilience, sportsmanship, and lifelong healthy habits.

Coaching & Program Staff

• Victoria Hammersmith

• Matthew Hammersmith

• Bruce Jennings

Together, our coaching staff brings more than 30 years of combined experience working with athletes of all ages and ability levels.

Team Eligibility Standards

To ensure athletes are prepared for the demands of training and competition, participants must meet the following minimum fitness standards:

• Boys 9 & Under

  • 1 Mile: Under 8:00

• Girls 9 & Under

  • 1 Mile: Under 8:20

• Boys 11 & Under

  • 1 Mile: Under 7:30

• Girls 11 & Under

  • 1 Mile: Under 7:30

• Boys & Girls 13 & Under

  • 1 Mile: Under 7:15

Athletes who are unable to meet the minimum team standards are not be eligible to participate in team practices or competitions.

Team Schedule

• Season Dates: August 15 – November 28, 2026

• Practice Location: Lakewood Nature Preserve: 220 Lakewood Drive Greenville, SC 29607

• Practice Time:

  • Sundays at 3:00 PM

  • Wednesdays at 5:00 PM

Additional weekly practice information and the complete competition schedule will be distributed on the first day of the season.

Team Gear & Race Package

(Must select at least one during registration)

• Warm Up / Practice Gear: $50

  • Practice Singlet

  • Practice Short

• Competitive Package: $100

  • Practice Singlet

  • Practice Short

  • Long Sleeve

  • Competitive Racing Singlet

• Footlocker Warm up: $75

  • Post Season Footlocker and AAU Competitions

  • Hoodie

  • Warm Up Jogger

Program Includes

• Team training and coaching

• Team gear package

• Race entry for Hay Bale Hustle

• Footlocker Championships (Saturday after Thanksgiving at McAlpine Park)

• AAU Region Championship Entry (AAU Membership Required)

• USATF Region Championship

• Team socials and developmental activities

Contact Information

• Coach Victoria Hammersmith

• VictoriaVVoronko@gmail.com