Dear Olathe East Cross Country Community,
I’m sorry to inform you that per Governor Kelly’s Executive Order, the Olathe School District is suspending all conditioning activities, whether coach or student led, as of Thursday. We will not be meeting Thursday or Friday of this week, or until the order is lifted. As of now, this suspension is until Labor Day weekend, though hopefully I will get better news before then.
The reason for this suspension is the rapid increase in Covid-19 cases. I feel that you should continue to social distance, and I feel that running is important to your health. But meeting as squads (boys and/or girls) or as a team is not going to happen until we are given the all clear by state health officials. I think it is important that you understand that you and your family’s health is the utmost concern here, not our season or times or places. Your health is the utmost priority. This isn’t a punishment, this is a protection.
At this point I would like to thank you all, especially our seniors, who have gone beyond and above expectations with their spirit and leadership. While they can’t organize conditioning now, I know that like me, they hold all of you close to their hearts. The friendships you have gained this summer are not forgotten or lost, but will grow stronger. Lean on each other for support. Cross country runners are the best people at caring. I encourage you all to stay in touch with your group chat. I encourage you all to keep safely close.
I’d like to schedule a time to zoom chat with each of you either individually or in small groups so we can talk about your running and your future. The KSHSAA is still planning on a fall sports season, including cross country, so there is still hope for our season. More than that, you are still a great team, working through challenges no other team in East history has ever had to meet. You are all very special to me and your other coaches. Please feel free to reach out to us if you need anything.
Tony Bozarth
Head Boys and Girls Cross Country Coach
Olathe East High School