Nike XC Camp of Champions Stanford University
Average Rating Stars
Join us at Stanford's Camp of Champions!
2023 DATES ANNOUNCED!
The Nike Cross Country Camp at Stanford University is called the “Camp of Champions” for good reason - Stanford enjoys international recognition for its ability to turn talented young athletes into world-class runners.
The Camp of Champions offers campers the rare opportunity to experience first hand, the life of a Stanford student-athlete. Runners are placed in small compatible groups based on weekly mileage, current fitness, ability, and XC experience. Each running group is assigned an experienced counselor, for specialized training and individual attention. Instruction is given by Stanford coaches & staff.
Click here for more information on the Track and Field camp.
- Our camps are open to any and all entrants, ages: 12-18
- Any athlete who has sufficient preparatory education to be academically eligible to enter college in the fall following the camp date will not be permitted to attend the camp.
- Drugs, alcohol and smoking are strictly prohibited and constitute grounds for immediate dismissal from camp.
Updated April 6, 2023: COVID Guidelines: You are required to attest to the following when registering your child for a camp or clinic at Stanford University:
- I attest the camp participant will be tested for COVID-19 (rapid tests accepted) within 24 hours of the start of the program and show proof of a negative test result to the camp director on the first day of the program prior to the start of the program.
- If the camp participant cannot provide proof of a negative test result upon arrival, then I allow the camp staff to conduct a rapid test on site and confirm a negative test result.
- I understand that camp staff can perform testing of symptomatic campers and reserve the right to screen all participants for COVID-19.
- I understand that if the camp participant tests positive for COVID-19 while at camp, they will need to leave immediately.
- I understand that failure to comply with the stated policy results in my child not being able to participate in the camp or clinic. In addition, I understand that failure to comply with the stated policy does not result in a refund of any camp fees paid.
Highlights Include
- Specific Training for all levels/abilities
- Knowledgeable & Inspiring Guest Speakers
- Nike Running Camp T-shirt
- Open to Ages 12-18
- View More Details ⟩
Camp Coaches
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Director J.J. Clark
.J. Clark was named Stanford’s Franklin P. Johnson Director of Track and Field on July 25, 2019. Clark oversees Stanford’s track and field and cross country programs.He arrived after serving as the head coach of the women’s cross country and track and field programs at Connecticut for the previous five seasons.Clark also served as the head coach and Director of Track and Field/Cross Country at Tennessee from 2001-14, leading the Lady Vols to NCAA indoor championships in 2005 and 2009. Clark was also an assistant coach for the 2008 Olympic team and has coached two USA World Championship teams.
View J.J.'s Bio ⟩ -
Staff Coach Ricardo Santos
Ricardo Santos came to Stanford in August of 2019 and was named an assistance coach for the distance programs by J.J. Clark, the Franklin P. Johnson Director of Track and Field.In his first Stanford cross country season, the Cardinal women were third and the men sixth at the NCAA Championships. Alex Ostberg, Alek Parsons, and Steven Fahy earned All-America honors for the men, as did Ella Donaghu, Jessica Lawson, and Fiona O'Keeffe for the women.
View Ricardo's Bio ⟩ -
Assistant Coach Addy Royal
Addy Royal is in her first season as an assistant coach working with the men’s and women’s distance programs. Royal was a volunteer assistant coach as Stanford swept the 2020-21 Pac-12 men’s and women’s cross country titles. Stanford also was the only school to place both teams among the top five at the NCAA Cross Country Championships.
View Addy's Bio ⟩
Camp Details
SECURE YOUR SPOT!
You can expect a high demand on these first-come-first-serve camper spots, so please be sure to register early.
Training and instruction are provided in breakout sessions led by the Stanford Camp Counselor Staff, including current Stanford coaches and student-athletes. The camp also employs counselors from other collegiate institutions, providing campers with a broad range of insight and experience from coaches and athletes from around the country. The week will also include speakers and panel discussions with counselor staff including topics such as training, competition, balance, motivation, sleep and nutrition.
Campers engage with Stanford’s impressive coaching staff that consistently produces NCAA All-Americans, National Champions, and Olympians. The camp counselors include current and former Stanford distance athletes who work with campers in small groups and offer their advice on training and racing as elite student-athletes.
A representative from the Stanford admissions office attends a session dedicated to the college recruiting process, offering valuable advice to campers.
Early pick-up requests must include contact information for the parent/guardian of the camper, a signature approving the early departure, as well as the method of pick up (e.g., parent/relative will pick up, Uber, car service, etc.).
2023 OVERVIEW
- Dates:
- June 26-29
- July 31-August 3
- Ages: 12-18
- Gender: Co-ed
- Camp type: Day, Half-Day
- Schedule: Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM (Full Day); 9:00 AM-12:00 PM (Half-Day)
- Check-in: 15 minutes prior to camp start time
- Location: Cobb Track & Angell Field- Stanford University
- View the campus map here
- Lunch: Campers should bring their own lunch and snacks
PREPARE FOR CAMP:
Please make sure you have your proof of a negative COVID test taken within 24 hours prior to the start of camp (PCR, Rapid, and home tests accepted).
Remember to complete your USSC Health & Release forms, which will be sent via email 3 weeks prior to the start of camp. All health forms must be completed and submitted online prior to camp check-in.
*Note: If you are registered for a Nike Stanford Cross Country or Track & Field Camp, you cannot view your enrollment in the USSC Customer Portal. Please wait for your Camp Information Landing Page email to be sent to you approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the camp start for more information and the USSC online Health & Release forms.
All necessary camp information is on this page. If there are any imperative changes prior to camp start, registered campers will be notified via email and this webpage will be updated!
INSTRUCTION, EQUIPMENT & FACILITY
- Ratio: 1:10 staff to camper ratio
- Grouped by: age, ability and event
- Evaluation: by coaching staff
- Equipment Needed: Campers should bring at least one pair of broken in running shoes. Event shoes/spikes are recommended but not required. Please be sure to properly mark your equipment, so that it can be easily identified.
- Facility: Stanford University, local roads and trails
EVENTS OFFERED
- Cross Country/Distance Running
CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO BRING:
Below is a suggested list of clothes, equipment and personal items. US Sports Camps is NOT responsible for lost or stolen articles or money.
ALL CAMPERS:
- Extra Athletic clothing
- 1-2 pairs of broken in running shoes/ event spikes
- Non-running shoes
- Water bottle
- Sunblock
- Packed lunch and snacks
- Small gym bag/backpack
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is not provided. Campers are responsible for getting to and from camp on their own. There is no supervision before or after camp hours so please make arrangements to pick up your child on time.
MEDICAL PROTOCOL
Most camps have an athletic trainer on-site to help with illness or injury. In case of an emergency, campers will be transported to the nearest hospital.
COMPANY POLICIES
Please note Stanford University's cancellation policy: For any cancellation prior to 14 days from the camp start date, a refund will be issued to the payment method on file, less the $100 cancellation fee. For any cancellation within the 14-day period prior to the camp start date, no refund or credit voucher will be issued. Credit vouchers are not redeemable at any Stanford University camp.
For information regarding all other company policies, please visit USSC Policies.
NIKE CROSS COUNTRY CAMP FAQ
For general questions about our Cros Country camps please see our FAQ page.
Sample Daily Schedule
- 8:45 am Camper Drop Off/Check In
- 9:00 am Depart for Morning Run
- 10:15 am Stretching + Active Recovery
- 10:45 am Guest Speaker
- 11:45 am Morning Recap
- 12:00 pm Lunch (Bring Own Lunch)
- 1:00 pm 2nd Run, Drills, Strides
- 2:45 pm Meet in Counselor Groups for Recap and Check Out
- 3:00 pm Camper Pick Up & Departure
The beautiful Stanford campus and hills surrounding the University offer cross country runners miles of challenging and pristine trails.
Campers train at the Cobb Track and Angell Field as well as participate in choreographed runs through the beautiful Stanford campus. Campers may also be bused to nearby Huddart Park for longer distance runs. The forested slopes and steep cool canyons provide campers with a picturesque and challenging terrain.
Camp Questions & Answers
I have a credit/voucher from another US Sports Camp. Can I use it for the Stanford XC Camp of Champions?
No. Unfortunately, credits/vouchers from all other US Sports Camps cannot be applied to any camp at Stanford University.
What is the cancellation policy?
Please note the unique cancellation policy for the Stanford Camp of Champions:
All campers must cancel their registration at least 14 days prior to the start of camp to receive a full refund less a $100 cancellation fee. Any cancellations within the 14-day period leading up to camp do not receive any refund. Credit vouchers are not issued for cancellation, and credit vouchers are not redeemable at any Stanford University camp.
What is the difference between track and field and cross country camp?
Stanford Track and Field/Cross Country Camp operates as two camps in one and offers the best of both worlds for any budding athlete! While we meet together for check in, meals, and guest speakers, we will separate cross country and track and field campers for all of our “training” sessions. Cross Country includes longer mileage runs and some track workouts. Cross Country also does two off-campus, longer distance runs that will take place on local trails and jogging paths. Track and Field offers workouts/training in the following disciplines: sprints/hurdles, jumps (pole vault, high jump and horizontal jumps), and throws (shot put, discus, hammer, javelin).
I run the 800-meters, which camp should I register for?
Great question! Cross Country Camp features more distance-based training, with athletes running approximately 3-8 miles per session. The sprints group will focus more on drills, form, block starts, and shorter-distance, speed-based workouts. If you are unsure of which group you belong, please speak to your counselor and we will ensure that you have the BEST POSSIBLE training experience.
Will a campus tour or admissions information be included for interested campers?
No. Campus tours or admissions discussions will not be conducted as part of Stanford Track and Field/Cross Country Camp. Campers interested in a campus tour should visit the Stanford Visitors’ Center website for more information - http://visit.stanford.edu/basics/visitor_center.html. Please note: Tours should be scheduled AFTER camp has concluded. Campers will not be released to participate in any outside activities during the duration of camp.
I am interested in running in college - Will there be information about this process provided to campers?
Stanford Track and Field/Cross Country Camp will feature both coach and student-athlete panel discussions. Campers will have the opportunity to submit questions to be answered during the discussions. Our coaching staff features both coaches and current student athletes from all levels of collegiate track and field (Division I, Division II, Division III, NAIA, etc.), and we are confident we can offer a broad insight to all athletes interested in competing at the next level.
Does the Health & Release Form need to be signed by a doctor?
Our Health & Release Form does not require a doctor’s signature. This form is required to be completed online, accurately, signed by the parent (guardian), and submitted before the 1st day of camp.
Can I come to camp alone or do I have to be a member of a team?
We welcome individual campers and teams. It's a great place to meet new friends who share your enthusiasm for the sport and to have FUN!
How many miles do we run each day?
In order to keep up with the general rigor of runs/workouts, we recommend that athletes are able to run AT LEAST three miles consecutively before attending cross country camp.
Cross country campers will run between three and eight miles per session, with up to two sessions a day. A typical day includes a longer distance run during the morning session, and a workout/track session (fartlek, interval training, hill repeats, etc.) in the afternoon. Distances and paces for each session will be based on runner mileage and ability.
How are runners placed in their running groups?
The staff will determine running groups based upon age, experience, and weekly mileage. We will start most runs in groups based on mileage for the day (e.g. 4-mile group, 6-mile group, etc.). Track workouts will be based on prescribed paces.
Does this camp have medical personnel on staff?
We have a certified athletic training on-site and a doctor on-call at all times in case of a training injury or medical ailment/emergency. If you have a medical issue that may affect your performance or participation in certain activities while at camp, please be prepared to speak to the athletic training staff at check in.
Are the campers supervised throughout the camp?
Yes, campers are supervised by the coaches and staff. All staff members complete criminal and sex offender background checks before working the camp.
Are meals provided?
No, campers should bring their own lunch/snack.
Camp Reviews
Submit a reviewOverall Average Rating Stars
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Met new people
August 14, 2019: Tessa thoroughly enjoyed the camp. She loved the coaches and meeting new people. She especially enjoyed listening to the guest speakers as they shared their experiences and words of wisdom. Their comments really resonated with her, and she hopes she can remember and apply it during her upcoming XC season
— Grace D. Parent
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The coaches were phenomenal
August 13, 2019: Working with the Stanford athletes and coaches gave him an appreciation for what it will be like running in a top D1 program. The coaches were phenomenal
— Brett M. Parent
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The workouts and speakers were amazing
July 9, 2018: She really loved everything about it! The workouts and speakers were amazing. They covered everything. It was an awesome camp
— Vivian S. Parent
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My kids are now hooked on Cross Country
July 19, 2018: My kids feel much more prepared going into their second year of XC. They loved the coaches and enjoyed learning about their experiences as well as meeting other kids from around the world. They thought Stanford was beautiful and liked running on different routes each day.
— Heather S., Parent
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The “fountain run” was “the best run of 2018”
July 5, 2018: He talks about how much fun he had running. He also really liked the student/athlete perspectives. The “fountain run” was “the best run of 2018”. He was also amazed at the level of running and the wide geographical range. Met lots of new kids
— Nicole D. Parent
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Such a positive experience
The coaching staff provided a positive and energetic environment for campers. Athletes, at every level of ability, were encouraged and received one-on-one interaction with coaching staff. The guest speakers connected well with the athletes and gave them additional insight. My daughter continues to talk about the experiences and information the guest speakers shared.
— Eileen W., Parent 2017
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Encouraging, Motivating, Demanding
Camper writing this- I loved the encouraging, motivating, and demanding atmosphere at the camp. The coaches were incredibly knowledgeable and pushed me to become a better runner. They were all amazing to work with. Definitely one of the best running experiences of my life!
— Danielle B., Camper 2017
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Incredible
This was an incredible experience. My daughter received excellent, individualized instruction and learned valuable skills on how to prevent injuries. She loved every minute of it! Parent of Camper
— Josefina C., Parent 2016
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Immersed in the running culture
This was my first year of camp, and unfortunately it will be my last as I am going to be a senior this year. However, I wish I had started going earlier, as I learned so much about running and really got immersed in the running culture. I wanted to go so I could be the best runner and best captain I could be, and I feel that Stanford cross country camp gave me the skills to do that. I highly recommend it for runners of all levels!
— Mitchell F., Camper 2016
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Runners are challenged
The training runs are difficult. The runners are challenged, and taught many things they can use forever in their running career.
— Clay W., Camper 2015
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Friendly staff
The coaches teach very well whether it may be involved with technique or any other questions you may have about cross country. The counselors were really helpful as well and super friendly. The workouts were intense and they seemed to help a lot.
— Tyler S., Past Camper
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Best camp experience for any runner
Stanford cross country camp is by far the best camp experience for any runner. You meet many runners from across the world and you learn from them as they learn from you. The coaches are extremely helpful as well as the counselors. The insight provided throughout the camp was excellent whether it may be about running or the Stanford campus itself. I would highly recommend it! Have fun!
— Lydia L., Past Camper
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Very informative
This camp was great. Very informative on everything you need to know about Cross Country, and I would highly recommend it to anybody.
— Nicholas E., Past Camper
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Can't miss this opportunity!
Stanford "Camp of Champions" is an opportunity that you can't miss to meet other runners like you and train in a college setting. It gets you excited for the upcoming season!
— Jacob H., Past Camper
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Become a better athlete
There are many opportunities kids are exposed to at this camp, especially at Stanford. Camp helped me get one step farther to fulfilling my college/athletic dreams, and helped me become a better athlete overall. I hope everyone who attends Stanford Running Camp(s) explores these opportunities to the max, and come home exhausted but smiling.
— Rose J., Past Camper
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Staff were excellent role models
My young kids had great exposure to what it takes to be a premier runner. The coaching staff and older kids were excellent examples for my kids.
— Hazel F., Parent
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Amazing campus
My experience at camp was really great! The campus was amazing and I can't wait to return.
— Catherine B., Past Camper
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Pushes Runners to the Next Level!
"Sets a high standard and pushes the runners to do things they weren't exactly sure they could before. Also has an excellent balance of activities and down time and keeps runners engaged and interested with a variety of activities."
— Colin H., Past Camper
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Exceptional Training
"The Nike CC Camp of Champions upholds exceptional training led by some of the fastest runners in the country, while providing advice and the information necessary to prepare a high school runner for a career as a collegiate athlete at any level."
— Greg M., Past Camper
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Amazing Experience!
"The camp was an amazing experience to meet other runners just like you from all over the country and world! I cant wait to participate in the camp again."
— Jamie S., Past Camper
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Inspiring!
"This camp gave me a future to look forward to and a staff of inspiring people to look up to. There really isn't an experience like this out there for people passionate about this sport."
— Jennifer H., Past Camper
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High Quality
"These camps give athletes of all ability levels the chance to receive quality instruction from great runners and great coaches. Terrific week."
— Rafael L., Past Camper
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Great!
"Provide good informational lectures for runners. They also are a great way to meet new people from all over the world that share a passion for running."
— Theresa A., Past Camper
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Well Organized
"Everything was very well organized which allotted for the right amount of free time. The staff, particularly the student athletes, and coaches were very friendly which made me feel at home. Also, I really enjoyed the speeches by the coaches, olympians, nutritionist, admissions officers, etc because the topics were very relevant. The way groups were established based on fitness was similarly appreciated. The best part of the cross country camp however, was how we got to run off campus and see the area, especially having come from very far away."
— Alyssa N., Past Camper
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Eye Opening
"As an incoming freshman, this camp really opened my son's eyes to the potential opportunities ahead of him. The exposure to high-level training is invaluable as he begins his high school years and the interaction with college athletes was truly inspiring. He loved every minute! Thank you so much - we'll be back next summer!"
— Eleanor E., Parent
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Unforgettable
"Nike Cross Country Camp is a chance to meet people from all over the world who have a passion for running. You learn new drills, stretches, and you have a chance to ask the counselors, coaches, and guest speakers questions. This camp is so much fun and it leaves an impact on your life that you will never forget."
— Megan W., Past Camper
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Great Coaching
"My daughter was inspired and educated during her 5 days at the Nike Cross Country Camp of Champions at Stanford University. I loved the integration of the coach and team members with the campers. They clearly communicated their performance evaluations, strategies for improvement and specific goals to my child during the camp. When my daughter came home, she said, 'I wish that I had started going 3 years ago.'"
— Michelle F., Parent
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Take your training to a different level
This would definitely be a camp to go to if you want to take your training to a different level and have an excellent experience overall. The councilors are there to help each individual and there is opportunity to get as much out of the camp as you want. I would recommend this camp to any runner looking for a new experience with their training.
— Gabriel G., Past Camper
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Very professional
I went to the Stanford running camp this year because I wanted to have the opportunity to train with other runners who were as dedicated to the sport as I was. Not only did the camp challenge me physically, but it also inspired me and gave me the mental tools to have a successful cross-country season. Everything is run very professionally and the coaches/counselors are very positive, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about the sport. Out of all the camps I have attended, this has been the best one!
— Victoria M., Past Camper
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Wish I had started going sooner!
The Nike Cross Country Camp was a lot more...intense than I expected it to be. I went into it thinking "I might not get as good workouts while I'm here as I do normally, but it'll be nice to run in new places." Was I ever wrong! We were placed into groups based on our skill level, so I was among 10-12 girls that were almost at my exact fitness level! Every workout was new, exciting, fun, and best of all, challenging! Not overly-rigorous, but certainly not the piece-of-cake jog that I thought we'd be doing. Additionally, the supplementary exercises, stretching, motivational speakers, and group activities made the camp unforgettable. I'd go back in a heartbeat - I wish I had started going sooner!
— Carla G., Past Camper
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Left with a greater passion for the sport
Stanford Running Camp was an amazing experience for my daughter. She was one of the youngest and smallest, but was treated as if she were a star-athlete. The coaches were engaging, the lectures were informative, and she left with a greater passion for the sport, new friends, and positive role models. It's important for young kids to feel connected with hard work and dedication. My daughter CAN'T wait to go back next summer. Thanks NIKE/STANFORD!!
— Becky J., Parent
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Campus is amazing
Nike XC camp at Stanford is an awesome week of running, learning and meeting fellow runners from all over the country. It is very well organized and the campus is amazing.
— Matt L., Past Camper
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Truly remarkable experience
Nike running camp at Stanford University was a wonderful experience and is essential to the development of any cross country runner. With the opportunity to meet many new people on runs and during other activities, Nike running camps provide you the opportunity to nurture friendships that can be drawn across the globe. At Nike running camps, you learn what it means to be a runner; the run isn't necessarily about winning, but rather, it's about advancing as an individual and striving to be the best YOUR best. Again, Nike running camps are truly remarkable experiences that every runner deserves.
— May C., Past Camper
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Made new, like-minded friends
Nike running camp was great! I loved it! The coaching staff provided so much information and help. It was lovely to be able to run with our leaders and talk with them. I also made some new, like-minded friends that I still keep in contact with.
— Danny H., Past Camper
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No doubt, we will be back next year
Best experience ever! No doubt, we will be back next year. Fantastic coaches. Learned a tremendous amount from the informative staff.
— Lillie H., Past Camper
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Immersed in the running culture
This was my first year of camp, and unfortunately it will be my last as I am going to be a senior this year. However, I wish I had started going earlier, as I learned so much about running and really got immersed in the running culture. I wanted to go so I could be the best runner and best captain I could be, and I feel that Stanford cross country camp gave me the skills to do that. I highly recommend it for runners of all levels!
— Ian H., Past Camper
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Running is only half of the experience!
When you come to this camp, running is only half of it. The friends you make, the chance to be on the Stanford campus, to meet college runners, and so much more, is the other half. Both halves are great!
— Sandra O., Past Camper
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Physical and mental side of running
Nike Cross Country Camps is a great camp for runners. They make sure the athletes are training in a group that is just their pace. This camp is a big help on the mental side of running as well. You will have fun here and improve. It's hard to think of any negatives at this camp. There really is no better way to start off your Cross country season or end your Track season.
— Ana A., Past Camper
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The mentor staff is outstanding
My son attended this outstanding camp at Stanford for cross country & track this summer. His performance and motivation has improved to a much higher level in sports and academics. The mentor staff is outstanding. Anthony will return for both camps next summer
— Courtney P., Parent
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Demanding
The camp hired some great coaches this year: everyone I worked with was encouraging and willing to help me improve. The work outs were demanding and I was sore a lot, but it was definitely worth it. I learned a ton of new drills and tips to utilize in my upcoming seasons.
— Tyler B., Past Camper
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Truly remarkable
Nike running camp at Stanford University was a wonderful experience and is essential to the development of any cross country runner. Nike running camps provide you the opportunity to nurture friendships that can be drawn across the globe. At Nike running camps, you learn what it means to be a runner; the run isn't necessarily about winning, but rather, it's about advancing as an individual and striving to be the best YOUR best. Again, Nike running camps are truly remarkable experiences that every runner deserves.
— Alice M., Past Camper
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Invaluable
This camp was an amazing experience for my son. The staff was knowledgeable, experienced, and very approachable. If your child is serious about running track this camp is invaluable.
— Judith H., Parent
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So much information
Nike running camp was great! i loved it! The coaching staff provided so much information and help. It was lovely to be able to run with our leaders and talk with them. I also made some new friends that I can say i am keeping in contact with. I actually met some people who are in my league.
— Stacey G., Past Camper
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Fantastic coaches
Best experience ever. No doubt, we will be back next year. Fantastic coaches. Learned a lot.
— Neal M., Past Camper
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No better way to start your season
Nike Cross Country Camps is a great camp for runners. They make sure the athletes are training in a group that is just their pace. This camp is a big help on the mental side of running. You will have fun here and improve. It's hard to think of any negatives at this camp. There really is no better way to start off your Cross country season or end your Track season.
— Charlie B., Past Camper
Nike XC Camp of Champions Stanford University
/media/images/running/nike/facilities/Nike-Cross-Country-Camp-Stanford-Campus.jpgStanford, California 94305
SECURE YOUR SPOT – CAMPS SELL OUT!
Last year over 650 Sports Camps sold out, leaving 7,000+ campers on the waitlist. Due to high demand, early registration for our first-come-first-serve camps is strongly recommended.
Camp Dates & Prices
