Cross Country - Boys/Girls
Welcome to Flagstaff High School’s Cross Country program—an energetic and inclusive part of the Eagles’ Fall athletics family. Led by dedicated coaches (including longstanding distance coach Trina Painter), the team trains students in endurance, strategic race tactics, and teamwork. Each season features a series of meets—including local invitational races and competitive league events—united by a focus on personal growth, school spirit, and athletic excellence.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or new to the sport, FHS Cross Country offers a supportive environment to build strength, determination, and a lifelong love of running. Athletes must complete Final Forms clearance before joining the roster and attending important season events—like the August parent meeting and shoe/flat night—marking the start of an adventure toward individual bests and Eagle pride .
Meet the Coaches
Head Coach
Trina Painter - Head XC Coach and Distance Track Coach
Trina has coached both the boys and girls at FHS since 2003 producing over 20 Individual and Team State Titles. She has earned AZ Coach of the Year and National Girls XC of the Year. Coach Painter moved to Flagstaff to train as a professional runner and competed in 4 Olympic Trials. Coach Painter and her husband David have two daughters, Hannah and Chloe that also ran for FHS. She also works as a Realtor.
Assistant Head Coach
Amanda Allen - Assistant XC Coach
aallen@fusd1.org
Amanda has been helping coach the cross-country team for 7 years. She teaches math at Flag High. She loves running with the team and watching them grow as runners and as students. She also enjoys doing other sports and anything outside. She's so excited for this upcoming season and wishes the team the very best!!
Assistant Head Coach
Chris Pabst - Assistant XC Coach & Pole Vault Coach
cpabst@fusd1.org
Chris has been coaching Cross Country at FHS since 2016. He began running in high school and kept running for fun throughout his time in college until the present. Along with coaching Cross Country, Chris also coaches Pole Vault in Track and Field as well as teaching Physical Education at FHS for the past 6 years.