Cross Country
Running cross country with TN Heat helps young athletes learn how to set goals and go after them. We’re all about investing in the next generation of leaders in our community while promoting a healthy, active lifestyle through fitness and exercise.
We aim to stay competitive while keeping Christ at the center of everything we do. Our coaches are here to lift athletes up and encourage them—not tear them down. We want to be known for strong teams, a supportive and positive atmosphere, enthusiastic fans, and great sportsmanship. This season you won’t just be on a team, you’ll be part of our XC family.
Are you ready to run?
Ages
We welcome runners from K-12 at all skill levels.
Divisions include:
- Elementary (K-5th ) - Races are 1 mile
- Middle School (6-8th) - Races are 2 miles
- High School (9-12th ) - Races are a 5K
When
Practice starts in late July - when it’s extremely hot - and finishes mid-November - where the temperatures are often near freezing!
Where
Most practices will be at Charlie Daniel’s on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. Most meets are on Monday evening at The Hermitage.
Later in the season, some Thursday practices are at The Hermitage. We also try to add a few Saturday races at different locations as opportunities arise.
Fees
Team fees range between $275-300 and covers a variety of expenses including:
- Uniforms
- Team-building activities
- Team registration fees for meets
A $50 discount is offered for each additional child.
Volunteering
We are a volunteer-run organization. Heat families may be asked to assist with various tasks such as timing, pictures, snacks, etc. as needed throughout the season.
We would appreciate two families with High School Junior runners to help plan the end of season banquet.
Coaches
Head coaches and assistant coaches are background-checked volunteers. Every coach undergoes training on concussion and cardiac arrest and is CPR-certified.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if our family cannot afford these fees? Do you offer scholarships or discounts?
We do offer a $50 discount for families with multiple runners. Fundraising ideas can be discussed with the coach! Additionally, sponsorship forms are available. Finding business sponsors in the community can help to offset team fees. Finally, payment plans are provided upon registration to help lessen the financial burden of participation.
Are there extra fees in addition to player participation fees?
Families should anticipate travel costs in addition to player fees as well as gate fees as required by various facilities.
My child is a beginner. Is Tennessee HEAT a good fit?
Yes! We encourage everyone with the desire to run and/or improve their health to participate. Coaches are eager to support and develop athletes who are motivated to improve.
What does practice look like?
All ages practice at Charlie Daniel’s park at the same time making cross country a great family sport. Everyone completes a warm-up lap and drills; then coaches for each age group take their athletes to different areas of the park for practice. Practice is from 5-6:15 pm on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. There are opportunities for extended practice most evenings for athletes who would like extra training.
When are the meets?
The first meet is Tuesday, September 8 in the field near Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage. Start times range from 4:45pm-5:50pm depending on age. TSIAA Conference meets are every following Monday through October 19th. When there is a meet, there won't be practice that night.
What equipment does my child need?
Athletes need a good, well-fitted pair of running shoes, a water bottle, gym shorts and t-shirt for practice.
XC Fall 2026
Please click on the button below to register for the upcoming Cross Country Season.
A mandatory parent's meeting followed by the first practice will be held on July 20, 2026 at Charlie Daniels Park at 5pm.
Registration required before your athlete can participate at practice.
**We have multiple sibling discounts available! After registration of your first child, you will be provided a discount code for additional registrations! Be sure to check your confirmation email for details.**
RegisterOops!
You have unsaved elements
Please save or cancel the pending changes to the elements within your page and then try saving again.