In what has become tradition for the University of Notre Dame men's and women's cross country squads, the 2013 season will begin Friday just like it has for the last decade - at the Crusader Open in Valparaiso, Ind.

Coming off a 2012 season where both of the University of Notre Dame men's and women's cross country squads advanced to the NCAA Championship, big expectations surround both programs as many key veterans return for the 2013 campaign.

The transition from high school to college can be tough for any student-athlete as they adapt to new teammates, coaches and a higher level of competition.

Despite the University of Notre Dame joining the Atlantic Coast Conference this season, the 2013 men's and women's cross country schedule looks very similar to previous years - with one exception. Instead of heading to the Northeast for the BIG EAST Ch...

With overcast skies and temperatures in the low 70's, the University of Notre Dame men's and women's cross country teams kicked off the 2013 preseason with an hour-plus practice as the sun began to rise Monday morning on campus.

Despite the University of Notre Dame joining the Atlantic Coast Conference this season, the 2013 men's and women's cross country schedule looks very similar to previous years - with one exception. Instead of heading to the Northeast for the BIG EAST Ch...