◆ Erie, Pennsylvania · A Christ-Centered College Preparatory Academy
CROSS COUNTRY
Discipline. Endurance. Excellence.
Thriving on the Course and in the Classroom
The Erie Preparatory Academy Cross Country Program is built on the values of discipline, perseverance, and faith — developing athletes who thrive both on the course and in the classroom. Competing under the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA), Erie Prep offers student-athletes a distinctive opportunity to train and compete at elite levels while pursuing a comprehensive, college-preparatory education.
Leadership and Coaching
The program is led by Coach Ryan Kelly, a veteran coach and educator with over 20 years of experience at both the high school and collegiate levels. A former coach at Edinboro University, where he helped lead multiple teams to top-10 national finishes and All-American honors, Coach Kelly brings a legacy of excellence and a deep commitment to athlete development. His approach merges high-level technical training with mentorship rooted in character and Christian values—shaping athletes to compete with humility and heart.
Program Structure and Season
Erie Prep’s Cross Country program runs from early fall through November, followed by Track & Field season in the spring. Athletes train year-round, emphasizing endurance, strength, and mental conditioning. Each runner follows an individualized training plan designed for steady progress, guided by professional oversight and supported by access to the Erie Sports Center’s high-performance facilities.
Summer training plans are provided to prepare athletes well in advance of the competitive season—a hallmark of Kelly’s proven program.
Facilities and Athletic Integration
Athletes benefit from state-of-the-art resources, including AHN Sports Performance and the Erie Sports Now Complex, both equipped to meet the training needs of elite runners. These venues support recovery, conditioning, and advanced sports science methods, ensuring that every runner competes at their full potential.
Commitment to Opportunity and Growth
Erie Prep’s cross country program welcomes both recruited and non-recruited athletes who possess determination, work ethic, and a desire to grow. The program provides exposure for college recruitment, personalized progress tracking, and one-on-one mentorship to guide students toward their next level—whether that’s NCAA Division I competition or lifelong athletic enjoyment.
Under Coach Kelly’s leadership, Erie Prep runners train not just to race—but to endure, excel, and honor God through excellence.
Inquiries should be directed to rkelly@erieprepacademy.org.