Eleanor Richard A’27 and Ceclia Kramper A’27 sharing an embrace after a long run. Photo courtesy Ava Owen A’27
Duchesne Academy can proudly boast it is home to the largest Cross Country team in Nebraska. More than 24 percent of the Duchesne community is part of Cross Country, as either runners, coaches, captains, or managers.
In every club, sport, ensemble, and class at Duchesne, a member of cross country can be found. What makes Duchesne’s Cross-Country team so appealing to people from all walks of life? The Bird Post was lucky enough to sit in on practice and see the sisterhood in action.
Duchesne cross country is split into three groups: Pink team, Blue team, and Green team.
Pink Team – “Back of the Pack”
These girls may not be the quickest runners but are considered the most energetic. Pink team loves to cheer and support their team, from “all the way back there”. But despite their lack of speed, Pink Team girls are determined to keep going even when it gets tough.
Blue Team- “Middle Ground’
Similar to their pink counterparts, Blue Team is a very encouraging group. Teammates often hear a “Good job!” or “High five.” An anonymous Blue Team member said, “We’re not the best, but we’re trying,” but it’s evident that the Blue Team has grit, they have goals and when once accomplished, they celebrate like it is Christmas morning. Blue Team treats every set back as a lesson and every win as a step forward.
Green Team – “Best Team”
The Green Team is Cross Country’s extended varsity, but even with their “elevated status,” green team girls treat their teammates with love, care, and without judgement. Even the most inexperienced runner can find a green team member running alongside them, ready to cheer them on. During practice, it was clear to see why so many girls join cross country. As senior Josie Thalken says, “It’s so much fun!”
It is obvious the reason people join cross country is the friendship and community that comes along with it. “Duchesne cross country is different from other sports because there is an emphasis on building community just as much as there is on running,” said captain Clare Lickteig. Runners, coaches, captains, and managers all support each other on and off the field.
Junior Amelie Espinosa sustained an injury while running. “I was very grateful to have my team, [Pink Team] carry me up the hill. I was even driven to the emergency room by Ava Owen,” she said. The community aspect of cross country is strong, and it is all thanks to the hard work of the captains: Seniors Eleanor Richard, Cece Kramper, Josie Thalken, Clare Lickteig, and Junior Anna McCreery. Captains host team dinners, plan themed Fridays, and lead small groups. “Being a captain can get overwhelming with organizing plans…but I am rewarded every day with the privileges. I get to see the happy smiles each day and the love that our community fosters,” Richard said.
Many people can sense the sisterhood and belonging that comes from Duchesne’s Cross-Country team and a lot of it stems from the coach, Mrs. Morton. Mrs. Morton has been the cross country coach for 14 years, and she has worked closely with every one of the girls, regardless of team, grade, or rank. “I would honestly say Mrs. Morton is one of the reasons cross country is so great,” said senior Elizabeth Grenier.
Coach Morton hugging student during state championship 2025. Photo courtesy Ava Owen A’27
Mrs. Morton’s lifelong love for running is part of why she became coach in the first place. “I love running,” said Morton. “It’s something that I have gotten a lot out of and I’m glad to share it!” Morton has put in a lot of effort into the team by scheduling practices, planning meets, and the use of her car. Morton’s ride is filled to the brim with misplaced skirts, fruit snacks, and water bottles. “If I could say something to all my Cross-Country girls, it would be keep trying to find your love of running, and once you find it, share that love with others,” Morton said.
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