TOP 10 REVELATIONS

Before you begin reading, let me just personally say thanks to everybody who kept up with RUNATION throughout the entire semester. I had a blast from the moment I created this campaign, to this ultimate finish line. It's been just an absolute joy in providing every single one of you, a taste of the greatness of running and why it's so much fun and important. Thank you to everyone who followed me on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, and I hope you were all satisfied with what you got here. Anyway, without further ado, here are my top 10 revelations I learned this semester:

1. A Fine Design: even before I started my RUNATION blog, I had a general idea of what I wanted it to represent. This not only helped make the construction of my blog and other social media forms easier, but it also transported me into this unique universe of communicating. When it comes to social media, you want your audience to jump into the screen in front of them (figuratively), and have them become immersed with your world and what you are providing. Like Agresta and Bough stated in the textbook, the key to social media is a platform that corresponds perfectly to what you're offering.

2. The Encyclopedia of Social Media: one of the best things I learned about social media, is that I am my own boss. I move at my own pace, focus on the things that I like to focus on, and I get to voice my opinions and share stories that I feel deserve more attention. Social media's impact is extremely powerful, and it continues to grow. Similar to the ideas in the text, social media opens up a transformation of who you are as a person, and it also provides a unique perspective of you that others don't normally see. 

3. Engage in this age: the main goal of social media, is to reach out to other people, bottom line. Networking is essential in this day and age, and the ability to speak with people who you don't know, should be taken to the advantage. The world is a hard place, and jobs are hard to come by. But social media's ability to let you expand yourself and reach out in new directions, makes it a whole lot easier and more fun. 

4. Stay up to date or face fate: I learned that regularly posting things for my blog can be a bit of a hassle at times, but it's totally necessary. Showing what your brand is all about more and more, and further developing it, helps keep your consumers interested because they come to gradually appreciate your effort and commitment to make a difference and do things others don't do. If you don't show a lot of new material, then the blog is just bland and there's not a whole lot of definition or relevance to it. 

5. Don't delete but be discreet: Nobody likes to see any negativity on their social media platforms. But before you hit that wonderful "delete" option on your screen, you should try reading those kinds of comments and really try to understand and analyze why that comment may be there in the first place. It could clue you in on something, regarding how to make your social media source better or how you can get the approval of other people. However, if it's an unnecessary hatred comment that includes profanity, that never does anybody good, so just delete that. 

6. LinkedIN winks others in: Creating a LinkedIn was a big step in this campaign, and it was appropriate too because it's the best place to find out one's career path. But LinkedIn is more than just going through one's history. It allows you to connect with others who are in the same field, and it further enhances your networking because you now have experienced sources, who have taken an interest in you and what you and your brand represent. Having a LinkedIn lures others in, who may be in your field, or may have other particular interests as well.

7. Privacy? SORRY. You see: the internet does not provide a sense of security for you personally. Once something is put out on the web, it's out there for good, and there's no way of retrieving it. Like the textbook says, privacy is not available in the world of digital communications and more data is now available to be attained than ever before. 



8. Pictures Assure: The old saying, "A picture is worth a thousand words," is undeniably true. Presenting a work of art related to your product not only gives the consumer a visual sense of what's available, but also sends a hidden message behind the picture's walls. Instagram for instance, has come in handy for me in not only letting my consumers see what's out there, but it also gives them a clear message of what running is all about, which is why I have quotes at the top of my pictures. 

9. YouTube in a cube: The fact that I was able to upload my elevator pitch on YouTube so easily, is what makes the website so great. YouTube is an ideal way of stressing the message of a campaign even stronger because, it enables the consumer to see the product in action. Additionally, the editing process such as iMovie also was fantastic in making my video unique. I was really into the making of my video and the tools that the program offered, were right there in front of me and they all worked out great. 

10. No date is ever too late: Before I took this class, the only social media that I truly had was a Facebook page. Creating new accounts on different social media sources was a bit nerve racking because I didn't think I would be good at it. But I do realize now that you can start social media at any time in your life. The textbook even stated that it is never too late, to start up a social media account. 

Google Alerts/RSS

Chicago Tribune: In 2014, if you had told Lowell High School Cross Country coach, Jake Rakoczy that his team would come in third place at the 2016 New Prairie Semistate, he would've probably thought you were crazy, after his team finished eighteenth overall. However, that is exactly what happened. In the course of two years, the Indiana High School's cross country team improved dramatically by 15 spots. The astonishing improvement, was the culmination to a very successful season for the Red Devils. Rakoczy acknowledged that part of this success, was not overworking his runners. He gave them more time to heal, even on race days. But he was always sure to remind them, that as the postseason rolls around, they need to give it all their very best.
Fox 5 San Diego: Well, now we know one high school that David Rosas is going up against. The Cathedral Catholic boys cross country team from San Diego, California, shocked the running world last weekend, winning the CIF Division III State Championship. The team overcame a lot of obstacles such as injury, illness and fatigue. But they managed to come together and became only the third team from San Diego to win a state title, and the first in 24 years. Congratulations to these runners, they totally deserved it. Get ready though, because you're going up against our runner, who is one of the best in the country.
TCPalm: May 22, 2017, will be the date of the Sports Awards, honoring student-athletes. Along with track and cross country, this event will recognize the top 26 male and female athletes of all sports in high school. The Readers' Choice Award voting begins next Monday and it will entirely be announced by December 30. The runners that are eligible are:
Caleb Potorff- Lincoln Park, Bailey Yoerin- Vero Beach, Chase Hyland- The Pine School, Daniel Shelley- Okeechobee, and Jimmy Granberg- Vero Beach. Who will win? We'll find out in 5 3/4 months.

Here's the 2016 Nike Northeast XC Championship Video Coverage

CROSS COUNTRY RATINGS FOR 2016- Google Alerts and RSS

With the 2016 Cross Country season officially concluding in two weeks in San Diego, CA, news reports (online & in local papers), have been publishing articles, regarding who they feel deserves recognition for their performances during the regular season.

The News-Herald: News-Herald of Mentor, Ohio, voted for their choice of the 2016 Boys Cross Country Runners of the Year. Matt Bull of Mentor High School, and Jacob Keating of Lake Catholic High School received the honor as co-champions. Both Bull and Keating entered the 2016 with enormous targets on their backs, as they were rated the top two runners in the region. Both runners lived up to their hypes and put together strong seasons, as exemplified at the Boardman Spartman Invite in October, where Bull came in second and Keating came in sixth. Both will continue their running careers in college. Bull will attend Eastern Michigan, while Keating still hasn't committed yet.
Gwinnett Prep Sports: In Gwinnett County in Suwanee, Georgia, sophomore Chase Condra won the Daily Post's vote for Boys Runner of the Year. Peachtree High School also had a very successful season as well. In the state championship meet in Carrollton, the Lions placed four of their runners in the top 21 and finished 3rd overall in the team standings. Condra conquered 5th place at the state meet with a finishing time of 16:29. Condra also was given the name "Brick 2.0" by his teammates who lauded him, for his outstanding achievements as a sophomore.
Capitol Hill Seattle: The Capitol Hill Seattle blog, commented that the National High School Coaches Association voted the 2016 Northwest High School girls cross country team, as the top Division II high school team in the nation. Aron Taylor, who founded XCNation.com, said that the team put on an amazing performance for the Sun Willows 5000-meter course. According to Capitol Hill, Taylor claimed that the team averaged under 20 minutes to finish the course. The team had some notable runners during the season. Junior Isa Meyers and Sophomore Macenna Hansen, were ranked fifth and sixth overall individually.

Cross Country Season Is Over

Today, was the Nike Northeast Regional Championships, at Bowdoin Park in Wappingers Falls, NY. Teams from the Northeastern states (New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania etc.), fought for a trip to Portland, Oregon next weekend. Overall, the race was an intense and hard fought battle. The winner of the race was senior David Principe Jr. of La Salle, who ran a ridiculous 15:18 at Bowdoin Park on Saturday afternoon and single-handedly demolished his course record, which was 15:22. For Don Bosco, David Rosas capped off his outstanding regular season with a 5th place finish overall, granting himself a ticket to Portland next weekend as an individual. The race was bitter sweet for Bosco though. Although David finished strong, the team came in 9th place overall. There was extremely tough competition in the race, and in the end, Christian Brothers Academy once again prevailed and emerged victorious! They captured the championship and will make another appearance at the Nike National Championship in Portland. Through it all, Don Bosco Prep had another solid season in cross country. Although they didn't accomplish the amount of success they would've liked to, they overcame so much adversity and put together a strong team effort. Everyone on that team contributed in some way, shape or form. The season may not have been what the Ironmen are used to, but they proved to everyone that you still cannot count them out. I would like to give my heartfelt congratulations to everyone associated with the Don Bosco cross country team, from the coaching staff to the parents, and to everybody on the team. But I specifically want to personally congratulate the graduating seniors: Matthew Agrusti, Jessie Mingalone, Brian Frank, Joey Erskine, David Rosas, and my brother Justin Touhey. All of you have had great cross country careers and congratulations on your final season.

RUNATION Elevator Pitch

Check out this warrior!

This proves that heart and determination, is greater than skill!
http://www.flotrack.org/article/48655-eli-moskowitz-was-kicked-in-the-face-and-still-beat-8-people-at-ncaas

Cross Country Div 5

Check out these times!
http://www.wanderer.com/sports/cross-country-shines-in-div-5-championships/

Google Alert/RSS: Bambi Takes Out Runner!

The competition and the course, aren't the only things to be concerned about when running a race. This college cross country race at the 2016 Mideast Regional at DeSales, was interrupted by a herd of Bambies running at full speed towards the runners. A bystander tried to warn some of the runners to watch out for the deer but ultimately, it was too late. One of the deer, ran into senior runner Justin DeLuzio, at full speed, knocking him off his feet and into the air, while landing with a thud. Despite the hit, DeLuzio wasn't seriously hurt, and actually finished the race along with a teammate who came to his aid.

http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/lehigh-county/index.ssf/2016/11/watch_deer_cross_country_runne.html

In case you missed them, here are the other Google Alert Articles

http://www.elpasotimes.com/story/sports/high-school/2016/11/08/panthers-aim-top-finish-x-country-meet/93358478/

http://lexington.wickedlocal.com/sports/20161102/lexington-high-cross-country-teams-sweep-league-meet

Article of the week

NIKE Northeast Regionals This Saturday!

Well, it's that time of year again. The final regular season cross country race will be this Saturday afternoon, November 26, at Bowdoin Park in Wappingers Falls, New York. For Don Bosco, the odds are stacked against them. They have very tough competition, from CBA to Princeton. It will not be an easy task to come out either in first or second place with over twenty five different teams competing! The atmosphere surrounding this race though, is electric. A trip to Nationals in Portland, Oregon, is on the line, and it would be a trip of a lifetime for any one of these teams to go on it. I hope Bosco gets either first or second but like I said, it won't be easy. David Rosas, our number 1 runner, may be able to qualify as an individual, if Bosco does not qualify as a team. Rosas is finishing up his high school cross country career with a bang, putting together his best season. My brother Justin, and fellow senior Joey Erskine, are also finishing strong as well, and have done a great job sticking as close as possible to David throughout these meets. The juniors, who came into this environment without any varsity experience, have also done solid. Ryan Nicholson, Devon O'Laughlin, Matt Hartman, and Jun Omiya, have all been outstanding 4-7 guys for Bosco, as well as newcomer sophomore Michael Dua. I remember watching this race last year and it was just insane. As you saw in the video I posted on Instagram, it was a cool, damp, cloudy afternoon. The race itself, was the most intense race I had ever seen, even more so than Manhattan. Bosco finished fourth last year which is very good, but not good enough to get Portland. This Saturday, the Ironmen look to right that wrong. Bosco has its eyes on the prize. It won't be an easy road, but you can bet that Bosco won't ever give up! GO BOSCO!

Check out the workouts I used to do for high school cross country. These were tough!

LinkedIn Page

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-touhey-a09875130?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile_pic

The Psychology of Running

Last week, I posted a blog reflecting on how running instills positive thoughts and moods in me. But sometimes, it can be the opposite. I have to be careful with what I think as I run. If I think too much, then I'm probably not going to be as efficient. However, if I think in a positive manner, then I'll be all good 😃.
Learn how your thoughts affect how you run HERE!

CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO FEATURING DON BOSCO AND CBA (Christian Brothers Academy)

How Running Can Lead To A More Positive Attitude

One of the most important things that I've learned from running personally, is that it instilled a positive attitude in me. For me, running is a medicine whenever things are getting tough for me. If I am down about something in particular, I'll sometimes run and it feels great. The reason is because I let out all of my anger or anxiety through my speed and body motions. Running is the perfect method to getting out of this dark hole that I am stuck in, and it allows me to get some fresh air and open up my mind and think very clearly about what I am going to do next. Exploring different areas is an important aspect when it comes to running, I learned.  I like getting lost or running in unfamiliar places because, not only am I taking a look around at new areas, but I feel alone and unbothered, and there is nobody or nothing to stop me. It really is an exhilarating feeling, and for me personally, running is not just intense but relaxing. I'm in a very good state of mind and the fact that I'm also giving my body some exercise, makes me feel good even more. The fresh air and isolation, allows me to put the pieces to the puzzle back together and think much more thoroughly to determine what I will do next. The movement of my body puts, helps me envision my future body movements when I undertake the next task at hand. Finally, it excites and relieves me and there's no greater feeling than that.

Ever wonder why you should start running? Ask Fitness Magazine

The Benefits of Running

The Rocky Road to the NJSIAA Sectional Championships

The 2016 Cross Country season is rapidly getting closer to the end. With just under a month left of the regular season before Nationals, high school teams all across the country are preparing for the final and most important meets of the year. On the east coast, high schools in New Jersey are training extensively for the NJSIAA Sectional Championships next Saturday, November 12, at Holmdel Park. That race will 160 (80 boys/girls), top teams in New Jersey, going at it, for the Sectional Championship. Personally, I'm looking forward to this race. Holmdel is a tough course and the fact that there are so many teams involved in this race, surely doesn't make it any easier for the runners. Don Bosco Prep, suffered a tough setback last weekend, falling to Indian Hills at the Bergen County Meet of Champions at Darlington Park. It was the first time in a decade that the Ironmen failed to bring the title home. Knowing the importance of this race, and the tension that my former teammates are under, they definitely have something to prove next weekend. Like I said before in the post earlier this week on Halloween, in order for us to have a good and successful race next weekend, Bosco needs to put aside that failure at Darlington and completely forget about it. This is a new race, and the last thing we need is for last weekend to distract us from the task at hand. Bosco has extremely tough competition next weekend, and the races are only going to get more and more tough and frequent as the season winds down. The article I've posted, displays the details of this race and it also contains a link that leads to an article, ranking the top 20 individual runners in New Jersey. Our very own, David Rosas, who is a senior, is ranked at #2. David is finishing up his final year of cross country with a bang. He won the Bergen County Meet of Champions last weekend and he's put on outstanding performances in numerous races such as 4th place in the Puma Invitational in Carlisle, PA, and 6th place at the Manhattan Invitational at Van Cortlandt Park. Congratulations to David, and good luck to the Ironmen for the next two weeks. You can do it!

Everything You Need to Know about the 2016 NJSIAA Sectionals

Top 20 Individual Runners in New Jersey Ranked

DON BOSCO FALLS AT MEET OF CHAMPS: THOUGHTS

As you've probably already seen in my post on Facebook, my high school failed to win the Bergen County Meet of Champions for the first time in a decade. With my brother being an extremely important member of that team and me personally knowing many of the guys, I understand it's a tough pill to swallow, considering that they put so much hard work and effort over the summer to get to where they want to be. Unfortunately, Indian Hills High School has an outstanding cross country team as well and they definitely deserved to win that race. However, despite the tough loss, for me as a former runner, I know that any loss is not fun to deal with, but the season is not over yet. Don Bosco still has a few more meets left in the season, with the biggest one being Saturday, November 26, 2016 at Bowdoin Park in Wappingers Falls, New York. That's the NXN Northeast Regionals race and the best teams from the northeast, fight for a spot to win a trip to Portland, Oregon at the Nike Cross Country National Championship. Overall, I know this is a big hit that Bosco took, but they need to put it aside and move on because the season is not over yet. I know they're capable of doing better than they did on Saturday, and I know they'll bounce back from this. Go Bosco!

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Google Alerts/RSS

River Dell High School Cross Country

River Dell Cross Country always put up a fight against Don Bosco, especially towards the end of the season. Ultimately however, two of their biggest runners, the Daly twins (Colin & Will), graduated last year and have moved on to UPenn, to continue their running careers. With their best two runners gone, River Dell had a major hole to fill for the upcoming season. However, River Dell filled those holes at the Big North Patriot Division championships at Darlington Park. Lead by Gary Wilhelm's first place finish, River Dell came through and won the race. Junior Ryan Scully, who is running in his first season since freshmen year, provided support, finishing ninth overall. In addition, the River Dell girls' team also emerged victorious as well.

https://twitter.com/RUNATION1997

Social Media 4 Social Change

Welcome to RUNATION! Where I will give you an all new perspective about running and what its benefits can do for you. I've always been a runner my whole life and there's no feeling like it. I love to get out and see what my body is capable of doing, how many miles I can cover, and how fast I can run. Of course I get tired as I run, but the feeling after running is unlike any other sport. There's a really huge feeling of accomplishment once you've completed a run. In most sports, you have guys sharing the field of battle with you and having your back. When it comes to running, you're pretty much on your own. You have to choose your own strategy and you have to test your limits on your own and I think that's what makes running so important. It's more than just a race. It's to test your abilities and to see if you can push yourself on every possible level you can do!