Chilling winds, cold weather, and snow might not appeal to some people, but the Nordic ski team is used to performing under these conditions.  The sound of skis gliding across snow and wind flying by their ears is no stranger to these athletes.  While it doesn’t get as much attention as some other sports, the Nordic ski team consists of some very talented people.

The Nordic ski team is the biggest in the nation.  It consists of about 100 to 150 boys and girls grades 7-12.  Torry Kraftson is the head varsity boys coach, and Kris Hansen is the head varsity girls coach.  There are five coaches as well as dozens of volunteer coaches.  As well as being open to athletes in grade 7-12 the team is also made up of beginners to very experienced athletes.

The Nordic ski team is coming off of a good season last year.  The girls team was able to place  fourth in state, and the boys team finished second in sections.  The boys also had three individuals race at state.

This success did not come before lots of hard work, and the team has been working hard since the end of last season in preparation for another successful year.

“We train basically the whole year for Nordic. During the summer and when there isn’t snow yet, we roller ski, run, and do strength training,” explained junior Siri Brochman.

Since there are no practice areas at school, the team must also travel to different parks for their practices.

“The varsity drives to either Lake Elmo Park Reserve or Afton for a roller skiing workout, while the JV runs at Lake Elmo Park Reserve,” said junior Linder Wendt.

A typical practice consists of a lot of different types of exercises, and simultaneously gets the athletes in great condition.  Stamina is a very important part of Nordic skiing.

“During a typical practice for girls varsity, we start by doing a warm up ski, then we usually do intervals or sprint pickups or work on our techniques, then we do a cool down,” said Brochman.

Nordic skiing has a good balance between individual competition within a team atmosphere.  This aspect is well liked among its participants.

“My favorite part is the aspect of the team and how we all work together to become the best skiers we can be,” said Wendt.

The team has confidence going into this season, and hopefully can top their performance from last year.

“The team goals are to win Sections and place in the top three at State,” said Brochman.

Judging by their past success and great work ethic, they should be in for another successful season.  Keep an eye out for them during the season, as they should be tearing up courses across the state.