MVS Summer Youth Coaching Programs

Cross Country and Speed Training Programs

Merrimack Valley Striders partners with XC Project for the 8th consecutive year to provide cross country training this summer for middle school to collegiate students.  

The coaching staff is comprised of well known, experienced high school track and cross-country coaches who are in their 11th year running this program.

The full program runs 6 weeks from July 6 to August 14, 2026. Three weekly sessions will be held on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 9:45 at the Greater Lawrence Technical School. See event details in the registration form.


The Speed Project was introduced in 2022 and we will build on the previous 4 years of success. The Speed Project is designed for both the Track & Field and Fall Sports athletes looking to become faster, stronger, and more athletic.  Now you can choose between XC Project or Speed Project to help focus your training for your athletic goals. 

Click on each program's tab below for more details about each program.

Sidney's Rainbow Runners

Merrimack Valley Striders partners with XC and Speed Project and presents a program in its third year Sidney's Rainbow Runners, honoring Sidney Mae Olson. This program is designed to help inspire a love of running in all elementary school age children (ages 5-10 years old) and will focus on fun, using games and active play to build strength, speed, agility, and mobility in a way geared to younger athletes. Our goal is to teach athletes the fundamentals in an enjoyable low-key atmosphere, working as a team to make progress together.

Mary Beth Ellis will direct the program once again. She will build on her experiences from previous 3 years and also draw from the best practices of the XC/Speed Project.