St. Joseph School Cross Country coaches, Tom Kelly and Jeff Gentile, are both distance runners. They know the importance of conditioning and that long distance running can build endurance and create stronger, healthier children. Witnessing heavy student participation while running in St. Joseph’s 5K Tailgate Trot races, they combined their interest and efforts in creating the school's first cross country team.

Throughout the years, the school has provided a no-cut sports program for students from grades 5-8. Students can participate in volleyball, basketball, football and track. With a push by Kelly and Gentile, and with the assistance and approval of the school's Athletic & Booster Club, they now have an added sport for their students to consider. Students in grades 5-8 race varied distances. Fifth grade runs one mile, sixth grade runs 1.5 miles, while seventh and eighth grade run a two-mile race.

The coaches began their program in early August, working with a group of 22 students. Meeting three days a week, they prepare for Saturday meets, which run through early October. Coaching assistants, Doug Vlasak, Judy Flavin, and Maggie Sluzas add their expertise in support of the coaches.

Both coaches have been long-time runners, having run in high school and college. Both have tackled marathons, Kelly having finished the Boston Marathon and Gentile completing the Chicago Marathon. Gentile has coached distance runners in the school's track team for the past five years and now assists as a volunteer at Downers Grove South. “I’ve been running all my life and have found that running can be a very spiritual experience,” he said.

Gentile hopes to create a Runners Club at St. Joseph, involving both parents and students. “It’s good all around both as a family activity and building endurance,” he added.

Coach Kelly explained that St. Mary of Gostyn parent, Ken Kalal, has been instrumental in guiding our new program. “We appreciate and thank Ken for welcoming us to the league, sharing his experiences and giving us coaching tips on how to run the practices and races,” said Kelly.

“Early race results have been terrific,” said Kelly. “We couldn’t be prouder each week as we witness runners setting better personal records and building stamina as their season progresses.”