Regardless of whether it is a blazing 100 degrees outside with the sun beating down on a hot August afternoon, or if it is the middle of November with cold rain falling, you will see the North Atlanta Running Warriors practicing around the school or in the Warrior Woods.

The North Atlanta cross-country team is one of the most hard-working and academically consistent athletic programs in the school. The team is also one of the few winning programs at the school. George Sanderlin, North Atlanta cross country coach and co-captains Jackson Pearce and Matthew Self are always boasting about the team’s success. “The season starts in May” is something that you will hear Sanderlin say every practice. “Cross country takes a lot of commitment and time, both mentally and physically,” said Self. “It takes a lot of planning around with meets and practices, while also trying to keep up with AP or IB and a social life.”

When it comes to academic excellence, the Running Warriors blow past the competition. The school’s last two valedictorians have both come from the cross country team. “My runners are student-athletes. Their priorities come in that order,” said Sanderlin. “I am sure to stress that to every one of my runners, and it has shown.”

Despite all the time and work they put into cross country, team members find a way to do both.

When it comes to goals, cross country sets them high. Last year, the North Atlanta harriers finished in 11th place at the state meet. This season, both the boys and girls team have established the goal to win the city championship and to finish top 10 in the state. “That’s when you get the trophies,” said Self. “I want to get the team a trophy.”

Cross country is a unique sport because participants are successful both on their feet and in the class. It is hard work that pays off both physically and mentally.