Spring Off-Season Training April 7 at the CAC!
First Day of Summer Training June 8
First Day of Tryouts August 10th 2026
Spread the word: 2026 Cross Country Summer Clinic Registration Opens on Monday, January 12
Welcome to the Carondelet Cougar Cross Country Team website.
We're thrilled to have you here! This is your one-stop shop for everything related to our Cougar cross country team. Whether you're a returning runner, a new athlete, a dedicated parent, or a supportive fan, you'll find valuable information and resources to stay connected and informed. We will be offering summer camps for 6th-8th graders and summer training for incoming 9th graders. Check back as more information is available.
During the 2025 season the Cougars asserted themselves as a team to notice in NorCal and at the State Level. This year's team was the first to run a team state qualifying race since 2010 at the North Coast Section Championships. Senior Gretchen Yakaitis was the D3 State Champion in a Carondelet school record state time of 17:09 for 5K. The 2025 team built on our rich history. Carondelet XC has had two CIF State Team Titles (1996 & 2006) and State Champion and Footlocker National Champion (Kristen Gordon Henehan, in 1996)! Join and become a part of something special!
Get Involved!
We believe that a strong team is built on active participation. We encourage all athletes to regularly check the website for updates. Parents, your support is invaluable, and we encourage you to explore the volunteer opportunities and ways to contribute to the team's success.
Join US...
Carondelet's Gretchen Yakaitis - 11/29/25 - State Meet Winner
Frosh/Soph Team at EBAL 2025, Newhall Park, Concord
If you have any questions, or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to Coach Ricketts at ricketts@carondeletcrosscountry.com
2025 NCS 4th Place team - State Qualifiers, Gretchen, Lily, Dalli, Ahna, Rebecca, Grace, Annabelle, Lena, Kaitlyn, Aurora
Things you need to run cross country at Carondelet...
Athletic Clearance - link
XCstats Account - see XCstats page and follow directions. If you already have an xcstats account do not make a duplicate one. Start logging your runs today! XCstats can sync with your Strava so no more manual workout entries!
Strava Account - there is a free Strava Account option this is all you need. Create an account then let me know so I can add you to our Strava Group. It is invite only.
Running Shoes - Running shoes from a running store that will help "fit" you is essential. Running shoes that "fit" right are as important as a helmet to a football player. It is worth the investment. Forward Motion, Danville or Road Runner Sports in the Willows, Concord are great places to start. We have a team night at Forward Motion on August 19th.
Watch - It does not have to be a GPS watch although those are incredibly helpful for your training logs and my ability individualize coaching. I will allow you to record your run on your phone's Strava App if you do not have a GPS watch. It will need to be secured in a stretch waist belt holder similar to this or this. Only a slim-fit waist belt will be allowed. The purpose of this is primarily the GPS recording so you can sync your run to xcstats and for safety on the trails.