Unlike other track and field teams, the cross-country focuses on one event, and the Radcliffe team's surplus talent has scared off less talented runners. "People of lesser caliber were discouraged by this factor when we held our early practices," Hunt says.
Sweats and Meals
Although the changeover to varsity status will considerably boost the team's prestige, team members tend to view the proposed switch in terms of the more practical advantages if offers.
"Being varsity will mean more of the 'little things,' like better sweats and more team meals," Kat Taylor says.
"I don't think the lack of varsity status has hurt us, but I think it will help the team as a whole, especially with recruiting," Sarah Linsley said. "Some parents of team members and interested alumni have formed 'Friends of Radcliffe Track' to help push the idea," she says.
Coach Hunt is optimistic about the team's chances for varsity designation. "Given the talent and enthusiasm of the girls we've got now, I'd say that the change is both imminent and inevitable," he says.