Unity Point School’s Cross Country Team exemplifies determination and teamwork, with seventh-grader Chase Little leading the charge. Under the guidance of head coach Melissa Camasta and assistant coach Jennifer Hargrave, the team has grown into a supportive and driven group of runners, striving to push their limits both individually and collectively.

For Chase, running is more than a sport—it’s a passion that has taken him to state-level competitions twice in three years. “Cross country just feels different,” Chase says. “When you do well, it feels like you’ve accomplished something big, even if it’s just beating your own time.”

Chase joined Unity Point’s Cross Country Team in fifth grade and quickly proved himself a standout athlete. This year, his dedication paid off as he achieved a personal milestone, setting a new school record at the state meet with a time of 11:11 for two miles. His performance earned him a 22nd-place finish, a medal, and the distinction of being Unity Point’s fastest runner.

“Breaking the school record was my biggest goal,” Chase says. “It felt amazing to finally do it.” His accomplishment was celebrated by his coaches and teammates, who recognized the hard work he put into reaching this level.

Coach Melissa Camasta, who took the helm of the cross country program this year, is impressed by Chase’s drive. “He’s incredibly self-motivated,” she says. “He runs year-round, not because anyone tells him to, but because he loves it.”

The team practices two to three times a week, running laps on Unity Point’s mapped course or engaging in strength training and sprint drills. While the runners enjoy logging miles outdoors, Coach Camasta also incorporates creative training methods when the weather doesn’t cooperate. “We’ve run laps inside the school before,” she says. “The entire team sprinting through the hallways definitely keeps things interesting.”

This year, Coach Camasta introduced more strength training to improve the runners’ overall fitness. “We did push-ups, wall sits, and sprint intervals,” Chase recalls. “It was tough, but it helped a lot.” The new regimen paid off, with several team members achieving personal bests throughout the season.

Although cross country is often seen as an individual sport, the Unity Point team thrives on camaraderie. The group of 19 runners, including boys and girls, supports one another at practices and meets. “Everyone cheers each other on, even if they’re not running,” Chase says. “It feels like a family.”

The team’s diversity in age and experience creates a unique dynamic, with older runners mentoring younger teammates and setting an example through their work ethic. “We had some fifth graders this year who were able to qualify for varsity because of their dedication,” Camasta notes. “It’s exciting to see how much they grow.”

As Chase looks ahead to eighth grade, his sights are set on even bigger accomplishments. “Next year, I want to place in the top five at state,” he says confidently. With his track record of improvement and relentless determination, both his coaches believe he can achieve it. “

Coach Camasta also hopes to bring more runners to the state meet next year, aiming to qualify as a team rather than as individuals. “It would be incredible for them to experience that together,” she says. “Chase set a great example this year, and I think his success will motivate others to push themselves.”

For Chase, cross country is more than just medals and records—it’s about the journey. “Running makes me feel good,” he says simply. His love for the sport extends to regular track meets, where he competes in the mile and 800-meter events, and even basketball, where he plays point guard for Unity Point’s varsity team.

Coach Camasta, reflecting on her first year leading the team, is already excited for next season. “This year taught me so much,” she says. “I can’t wait to see how these kids grow, not just as runners but as people.”

As the Unity Point Cross Country Team gears up for another season, Chase Little and his coaches embody the school’s commitment to fostering talent, resilience, and teamwork. Their journey is a testament to the power of setting goals, working hard, and supporting one another every step of the way.