Sports options for the non-elite

Re “Narrowing the Field” [Oct. 2]: Your article on elite athletes really hit home. I had that son who played years of Little League baseball, AYSO soccer and NJB basketball. He was that kid who gave it his all and was always an asset to his team.

But he knew what he was up against at the high school with all the elite club players. The very wise high school counselor who met with him at the end of eighth grade suggested that he try cross-country at the school’s summer camp, that it was a “no cut” sport at the high school. Granted, it is a grueling sport and the workouts are brutal, but he ended up doing it all four years, made great friends and enjoyed the competition because you are always looking for a personal best. There is huge family support at all the invitationals and even the last runner in gets cheered.

LAURIE NADA

Irvine