YOUTH CROSS COUNTRY PROGRAM
Fall 2025
Valor TC youth xc is BACK!
We will be meeting weekly to train, race and build our teams up on the road to Indiana, starting 10/26 @ the BAA Mayor’s Cup in Boston, MA! All youth athletes are invited to join our competitive training and racing program which will meet 2-3 x per week in and around Portland, ME and focused on developing speed, endurance and good habits on our pursuits of competing on the regional and national stage. Our training program has been committed to developing elite athletes since 2024 with Nora Schmidt of Portland most recently winning the national title in steeplechase this summer! Our training and coaching environment is a great space for athletes who want to continue to prove that running and fun can go hand-in-hand. We welcome athletes of all abilities, so if you are a brand new runner, you are as welcome here as an Olympic champion. Maybe we can help you get there.
Coaching Staff
Coach Paige and Charlie return to guide a group of young cross-country athletes on their journey to compete together at USATF Maine State Championships at Smiling Hill Farm, Junior Olympic Regional Championships in Attleboro, MA and USATF Junior Olympic Championships in Shelbyville, Indiana. They will be accompanied by:
Sam Thompson - USM Alumni and local middle school cross country/track coach
Aaron Willingham - UMaine Alumni and local running star/strength coach
Sam Laverdiere - Former Gatorade Athlete of the Year recipient and 12 x state champion out of Lake Region HS
With volunteer coaches Katie Caizaio and Maya Barrett-Tzannes
Season Details
COST
$325
Includes elite level coaching and support at 2 training sessions per week and 6 meets throughout the season.
Athletes must sign up for a USATF membership or have current membership and also affiliate with Valor TC Portland.
Club ID: 01-8965.
Other perks: We’ve been fortunate to receive support from some of your favorite companies so you will enjoy discounts to ON, Marathon Sports Maine, MeFit, Starting Line, Portland Yoga Co., The Form Lab, and more!
*Race singlet ($35) and other gear purchased separately.
*Race registration fees not included
Additional season info will be sent after signing up!
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Eager to Run with Valor but could use some assistance with season fees and/or travel to regional & national championships? You can apply for partial or full season support through the Valor Youth Program. Email paige@valortcportland.com for info.
All other questions or concerns to charlie@valortcportland.com
RUN WITH VALOR!
