Here is the explanation I received, I omitted names but they are credible. It makes sense and doesn't appear to reflect on the quality of the program and in fact enhances it.
"The t-shirts and magnet are “spirit” items. Sales are intended to be break even and any profit goes toward non IHSA trips (NXR)
Popcorn sales are for:
The school provides a set budget for uniforms and warm-ups although with the size of the track and cross country teams, there’s always additional ones needed beyond.
We also have special uniforms for certain competitions as well as other items such as massage guns, foam rollers, power plate/recovery equipment, timing chips, team wristbands, pins as well as shirts, etc.
All money goes directly in the boys cross country account to be spent throughout the season on necessary items also for things that the boys want to do/get such as prizes and awards for achievements and winners of competitions within practices, donuts after morning practice or Gatorade‘s for big workouts
Overall, we’re just looking for additional ways to make the experience a positive one for every member of the program.
And we used to pay $0.25 for colored sugar water."