CROSS COUNTRY
It's a great day for a run & We're seeking qualified candidates for the position of Head Cross Country Coach. Pius XI is the most diverse Catholic High School in the state and strives to offer each student an education that will prepare them for college or a successful career. • Let's Go Popes!
Popes - We highly recommend completing the athletic registration EARLY to ensure your son/daughter is able to participate in their desired sport - Athletic registration is due one week before the season begins - Hang on to your son's/daughter's WIAA Physical Form as you will need to upload it to the online registration form by taking a picture of it or scanning it
A New Chapter Begins For Pius XI Cross Country
A new era is underway for the Pius XI Cross Country program as Coach Scott Burazin takes the reins, bringing a lifelong passion for running, a commitment to developing student-athletes, and an exciting vision for the future of the Popes.
Originally from Cottage Grove, Minnesota, Coach Burazin's love for the sport began in seventh grade and continued through a successful collegiate running career at Concordia University–St. Paul. His years of competitive experience have shaped his approach to coaching, giving him a deep understanding of the dedication, discipline, and perseverance required to succeed.
After college, Coach Burazin began his career in education as a paraprofessional with South Washington County Schools while building an impressive coaching background with youth athletes. Coach Burazin has coached flag football, soccer, track & field, basketball, and baseball at the youth level. He has focused on creating positive experiences that encourage growth and inspire athletes to reach their full potential.
Now, he is eager to bring that same energy and enthusiasm to Pius XI.
"I believe in creating an environment where every athlete is challenged to grow while feeling like a valued member of the team," Burazin said. "Success is built through hard work, accountability, perseverance, and encouraging one another to be the best versions of ourselves."
That philosophy will serve as the foundation of the program as the Popes prepare for the upcoming season. Coach Burazin's vision extends beyond race times and finishes. His goal is to develop competitors who support one another, embrace challenges, and strive for excellence in every aspect of their lives. With a focus on continuous improvement throughout the season.
As he joins the Pius XI community, Burazin is excited for the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with his athletes and establish a culture centered on teamwork, commitment, and personal growth.
"I am honored to join the Pius XI community and look forward to building a Cross Country program that emphasizes growth, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence," Burazin said. "I'm excited to work alongside our student-athletes and help them achieve success in competition, in the classroom, and in life."
With a coach whose passion for the sport matches his dedication to developing young people, the future is bright for Pius XI Cross Country. As a new season approaches, the Popes are ready to embrace a fresh beginning and take the next step together under Coach Burazin's leadership!
2026-27 Varsity Cross Country
HISTORY
2025-26 Varsity Cross Country
Pius XI Cross Country: Building Champions Mile by Mile
The Pius XI Cross Country program represents decades of dedication to athletic excellence and character development in Milwaukee's running community. Competing in the challenging Woodland Conference, the Popes have built a tradition that emphasizes both individual achievement and team unity.
Program History and Achievements Cross country at Pius XI has produced numerous conference champions, state qualifiers, and All-Conference selections throughout its history. The program has consistently competed at the sectional level, with multiple teams and individual runners advancing to state competition over the years.
The Popes have established themselves as regular contenders in conference championships, with both boys and girls teams earning recognition for their competitive performances. Alumni from the program have gone on to compete at the collegiate level, continuing their running careers at universities across the Midwest.
Training and Competition Pius XI cross country teams train on various courses throughout the Milwaukee area, developing the endurance, speed, and mental toughness required for success in distance running. The program emphasizes gradual progression, proper training techniques, and injury prevention while building the competitive spirit that defines Pius XI athletics.
Home meets showcase the strong community support that surrounds all Pius XI athletic programs, with students, families, and alumni gathering to cheer on the runners as they pursue personal bests and team goals.
Character Through Competition The cross country program embodies the school's Catholic mission by developing young athletes who demonstrate perseverance, self-discipline, and support for their teammates. The individual nature of distance running, combined with the team scoring format, teaches runners to pursue personal excellence while contributing to collective success.
Continuing the Tradition Today's cross country athletes build upon the foundation established by previous generations of Pope runners, maintaining the program's reputation for competitive excellence and sportsmanship that has become synonymous with Pius XI athletics.
