Where Young Runners Discover Confidence, Friendship, and a Love for Running
For more than three decades, the Brocaw Blazers have been helping young athletes discover that running is about much more than crossing the finish line. Founded in 1988, our youth cross country club has introduced thousands of children to the lifelong benefits of running while developing confidence, discipline, sportsmanship, and friendships that extend far beyond the race course.
Whether your child dreams of competing at a national championship, wants to become a better athlete in another sport, or simply enjoys being active outdoors, the Brocaw Blazers welcomes runners of all abilities. No previous running experience is required—just a willingness to learn, work hard, and have fun.
More than just a running club!
The Brocaw Blazers are one of the nation's most successful youth cross country programs, but our success isn't measured only by championship trophies. While our athletes have earned hundreds of national team and individual honors over the years, our greatest accomplishment is helping young people develop healthy habits, self-confidence, resilience, and a love for running that lasts a lifetime.
Every practice is designed to help athletes improve at their own pace. Our experienced coaching staff teaches proper running mechanics, efficient training techniques, race strategy, and the importance of consistency—all in an encouraging and positive environment.
Running Makes Every Athlete Better
Many of our runners also compete in soccer, basketball, baseball, volleyball, swimming, wrestling, football, gymnastics, and numerous other sports. Cross country builds endurance, mental toughness, coordination, and overall athleticism that benefits nearly every athletic activity.
Running teaches young athletes how to set goals, overcome challenges, and believe in themselves—skills that serve them well in sports, school, and life.
A Place for Every Runner
Our program is open to boys and girls ages 6–14, from complete beginners to experienced competitors. Practices are structured so every athlete receives instruction appropriate for their age and ability.
There is no pressure to race every weekend. Families can participate as their schedules allow, making the Brocaw Blazers an excellent choice for multi-sport athletes.
Whether your child is chasing a personal best, hoping to make new friends, or simply looking for an active and healthy activity, they'll find encouragement from coaches, teammates, and families who share the same passion for helping kids succeed.
Why Families Choose the Brocaw Blazers
- Welcoming athletes of every ability level
- Experienced coaching focused on long-term development
- Age-appropriate training based on proven youth running principles
- Positive, family-oriented atmosphere
- Opportunities to compete locally, regionally, and nationally
- A focus on fun, confidence, teamwork, and lifelong fitness
- Over 35 years of developing young runners and outstanding people
Join the Brocaw Blazers Family
Every great runner starts with a single step.
Whether your child is looking for a new challenge, preparing for middle school or high school cross country, or simply wants to enjoy running with friends, the Brocaw Blazers provides the coaching, encouragement, and community to help them reach their potential.
Come join us this season and discover why generations of families have trusted the Brocaw Blazers to inspire young athletes, build character, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Run. Learn. Grow. Belong.
About Coach Ramsey
Coach Ramsey is the founder and head coach of the Brocaw Blazers Cross Country Team and has dedicated his career to helping young athletes reach their full potential—both on and off the course. His coaching philosophy emphasizes not only becoming a faster runner but also developing confidence, leadership, resilience, and character that lasts a lifetime.
In addition to leading Brocaw Blazers, Coach Ramsey works with athletes, coaches, and teams throughout the country to improve every aspect of athletic performance. He is a sought-after speaker, presenting at coaching clinics, workshops, and seminars on topics ranging from cross country and track & field to leadership, motivation, and athlete development.
Smarter Training for Faster Running Cross Country & Distance Camp
Coach Ramsey is the founder and director of the Smarter Training for Faster Running Cross Country & Distance Camp, a week-long camp held each July in Colorado. The camp attracts runners from across the United States and around the world, providing athletes with world-class instruction while helping them grow as runners, teammates, and individuals.
He also founded the Bridging the Gap From Youth to Olympian Track & Field Clinic, held annually in the Kansas City area. This unique event brings together elite athletes, accomplished coaches, parents, and youth competitors to share knowledge, inspire the next generation, and promote excellence in the sport.
Beyond Coaching
Beyond coaching, Coach Ramsey has made significant contributions to youth distance running nationwide. He serves on the Executive Board for the CC Coaches National Youth Championships and is the National Championships Coordinator for YES-Athletics, helping organize and support some of the country's premier youth running events.
Throughout his career, Coach Ramsey has served as meet director, meet referee, official and troubleshooter at numerous youth, high school and college track & field and cross country meets including the NCAA Championships, SEC, Big XII, KU Relays and Kansas High School State Meet.
His passion for education extends beyond the United States. As an International Rotary Foundation Scholar, Coach Ramsey spent a year studying at the University of New England in Armidale, New South Wales, Australia—an experience that broadened his perspective on leadership, athletics, and personal development.
Positive Influence
Perhaps more than anything, Coach Ramsey is known for the positive influence he has had on thousands of young athletes and the countless coaches he has mentored throughout his career.
His memorable sayings, practical wisdom, and unwavering belief in every athlete continue to inspire generations of runners to dream bigger, work harder, and become the very best versions of themselves.