From the FasterSkier archive — posts syndicated from athletes’ and coaches’ own blogs between 2004 and 2012, kept online as published. Current coverage is at fasterskier.com.
The University of New Mexico Ski Team is seeking a Nordic Assistant Coach. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated coach to work with one of the top Collegiate Nordic programs in the country. Right now we are primarily looking for someone that is interested in starting graduate school at UNM in January 2016. A small salary will be offered for the fall semester, August – December, and once the coach starts graduate school, the full tuition + a monthly stipend will be paid.
The Nordic Assistant coach will work directly with the Head Coach in all aspects of coaching and be involved in fund raising and promotional activities.”
Please e-mail expressions of interest to Head Coach, Fredrik Landstedt landsted@unm.edu
Stowe Nordic (Stowe, Vermont) is seeking to hire a Program Director/Head Coach to develop and run its youth cross-country skiing program. In this role the Head Coach will work across the BKL age spectrum (5-14), to develop young cross-country skiers’ skill and passion for the sport from their first time on skis through competing as a cohesive team at local and regional competitions.
The Head Coach must be a passionate ski professional that brings enthusiasm and structure to the role, creating a rewarding environment of personal growth, fun and achievement for all participants.
Responsibilities:
Plan, Develop and Manage the Program
Design and document a program structure and curriculum incorporating age appropriate content
Develop training schedules and daily/weekly training plans
Community Outreach & Program Expansion
Communicate regularly with parents of participants
Reach out proactively to potential new participant pools (regional schools, etc.)
Drive strong ties to the local community and other ski organizations/clubs
Proactively seek new athletes to expand the program
Maintain a positive and highly engaged relationship with NENSA, USSA, and members interest groups in the central Vermont region
Fall Dry Land and Winter On-Snow Ski Training
Implement the program beginning in the fall of 2015
Work with parent volunteers to assist with younger age groups
Lead November dry land training
Lead all Winter on-snow training sessions – programming up to 3 days per week based on athlete ability/interest:
1 session a week program (recreational focus but with some instruction)
2 sessions a week (participants want to ski more often, experience racing or challenge themselves further on technique skills and endurance)
3 session a week (highly motivated participants/want to race – adds a third practice per week concentrating on technique training for racing and performance).
Plan, coordinate and lead participation in local and regional races/events – introduce young skiers to racing in a fun, supportive, team oriented environment.
Future Growth & Development
Potential to expand to a full-time year-round position through driving:
growth in participation
expansion of age groups within the program
development of complimentary summer programming
offering summer camps for club members or out-of-town athletes
Potential to add assistant coach(es) as needed to manage program growth
Salary will be based on experience and may be impacted by growth in skier enrollment in the program. An initial contract will range from $10,000 to $12,500, commensurate with experience, for the November through March season.
To inquire or apply please submit a resume and cover letter to: info@stowenordic.org
Nordic Ski Club of Fairbanks’ Fairbanks Cross Country (NSCF-FXC) junior racing program is searching for an assistant coach to work as part of a team of professional and volunteer coaches in helping guide its junior and masters athletes as they pursue their goals and dreams in Cross Country skiing.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a program that has been steadily growing and improving since its inception in 2006; the program currently engages more than 120 athletes on an annual basis.
The NSCF-FXC program is part of an integrated development path that begins with the club’s highly successful Junior Nordics program, which instructs over 200 young skiers ages 5-13 each winter. Athletes in the FXC junior program are split among three tiers: the Jr. Devo Team for late elementary skiers, the Prep Team for middleschoolers and the Comp Team for high school and post-graduate athletes. There is also a growing Masters program that was begun in 2013.
We are fortunate to have great opportunities as ski racers in Interior Alaska, due in large part to a strong and exceptionally supportive local ski community. Our home trail system at Birch Hill Recreation Area – one of two primary groomed ski trail networks in Fairbanks (and one of several in the Fairbanks area) – includes over 40 km of trails, 11 km of lighted trails, a full array of FIS homologated race loops, a terrain garden for ski play, and a 10,000-square-foot ski center with various outbuildings. The club provides grooming throughout the 6- to 7-month ski season, and our nationally recognized competition crew organizes a full slate of races ranging from youth events, to marathons, JN qualifiers, National Championships and FIS races. The long days of summer offer great dryland training opportunities particularly for activities on trails, and ready access to some of the most expansive wilderness in North America.
This position would start as a summer position with the potential to expand to year-round (our preferred scenario). Summer would include coaching with all levels of our junior program, while winter would involve both the juniors and work with our Masters program as part of an expansion of our programming at the masters level. Summer training would involve morning and afternoon and/or evening workouts 5-6 days per week with middays free; winter would be primarily afternoons and evenings with some weekend duties.
The ideal candidate would have raced at the collegiate level or higher, be enthusiastic about and have experience working with or coaching youth, possess excellent communication and organization skills, and be able to complete miscellaneous projects in a timely manner with minimal oversight. The assistant coach must be able to pass a background check and possess a valid driver’s license. If not already certified, it would be expected that the candidate completes the USSA Level 100 certification within 90 days of hire (with educational costs covered by the club).
The typical hourly commitment during the busy summer and winter seasons would be 15-25 hours of coaching per week plus 5-10 hours of organization and miscellaneous tasks. Weeks involving training camps, trips or important races would likely exceed 40 hours. The schedule allows for potential additional employment within the local ski community (coaching, lessons, grooming, etc.) and the Fairbanks community at large. The University of Alaska offers a wide variety of college and graduate level courses at its Fairbanks campus for those wishing to further their education.
For a broader sense ofthe NSCF as a whole, please consult our website: www.nscfairbanks.org, or the NSCF-FXC Facebook page for a better picture of our program. For questions or to submit an application, contact NSCF-FXC Head Coach and Director of Skier Development Pete Leonard at pete@peterleonard.net or (907) 978-6325. Applications should be submitted to the aforementioned email address and should include a cover letter, resume and three references. Initial review of applications will begin April 27, and the position will remain open until filled. Applicants should expect to be on the ground in Fairbanks by early June.
Visit https://employMe.nmu.edu to obtain additional information and apply for the Assistant Ski Coach vacancy. This position will assist the Head Ski Coach with all assigned duties associated with the Intercollegiate Ski Programs. Teach in the Health and Human Performance Department as assigned.
Minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree. NCAA recruiting test proficiency, or passing within one month of hire. Possess a current CPR certification or the ability to obtain upon hire. Demonstrated successful skiing coaching or racing experience at the collegiate or comparative level. No prior involvement with NCAA major rules violations. Commitment to the academic success of student athletes.
Knowledge/skills/abilities required:
Knowledge of NCAA and conference compliance rules.
Education and Training – Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Instructing – Teaching others how to do something.
Oral and Written Communication – Active listening, speaking, and writing which ensures comprehension and understanding in both the speaker and target audience.
Time Management – Managing one’s own time and the time of others.
Social Perceptiveness – Being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Coordination – Adjusting actions in relation to others’ actions.
Monitoring – Monitoring/assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Critical Thinking – Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Ability to demonstrate both classic and skating techniques.
Ability to use various computer software applications to include video editing systems.
Problem Sensitivity – The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
Originality – The ability to come up with unusual or original ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Ability to establish a good rapport and effective working relationship with student athletes, coaches, assistant coaches, administrators, college faculty and staff, alumni, professional colleagues, and the general public.
Service Orientation – Actively looking for ways to help people. Ability to work effectively under stressful and high-pressure situations.
The position is ten months; traditionally August through May; variable hours/days, depending on practice and competition schedule, recruiting demands and department events. One year contract subject to annual renewal. The salary is commensurate with experience.
Submit NMU staff application, cover letter and resume utilizing our on-line application process by accessing https://employme.nmu.edu. All required application materials must be submitted electronically by April 17, 2015.
NMU is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, and is strongly committed to increasing diversity.
The Jackson Hole Ski and Snowboard Club is seeking an Executive Director with a proven track record in competitive winter sports, k-12 education, fundraising, business development, and community involvement. Positon starts mid-June, 2015. Salary consideration begins at $125,000. Qualifications: 10-15 years of leadership with increasing responsibility; 10 years of nonprofit experience; demonstrated financial management; demonstrated success in achieving development objectives; the ability to build collaborative relationships; high level winter sports experience; Bachelor’s degree or higher required. A full job description and position summary are available below and at www.jhskiclub.org/employment. Please send resume and cover letter/letter of interest to hiring@jhskiclub.org. Application deadline is April 15th.
The Jackson Hole Ski & Snowboard Club (“JHSC”) was founded in 1938 and is Jackson’s oldest non‐profit. Annually, JHSC serves over 500 young athletes in Alpine, Nordic, Freeride and Snowboard programs, bringing affordable snow sports to Jackson Hole’s local youth. The 2014/15 fiscal year budget includes revenues and expense of over $1,200,000, with over $400,000 coming from fundraising and events. Additionally, over the past year, JHSC raised $1,500,000 in its largest fundraising and capital project in its history to purchase snow making equipment, chillers, and lights for the race arena and terrain park at Snow King, JHSC’s main Alpine training facility. The installation of the snow making equipment and lights is complete and JHSC plans to become a major player in hosting early season Alpine camps in November and December. Many more details on JHSC can be found at www.jhskiclub.org.
Position Summary
The JHSC Executive Director (“ED”) is the chief executive officer of the organization and is responsible for supervision and oversight of all JHSC’s business and fiduciary affairs, its agents and employees. He/she reports to the Board of Directors. The ED position is a high visibility one; the ED is the primary spokesperson of the organization. The position is full time, year‐round.
Opportunities
There are many opportunities to improve existing systems and to develop and implement new strategicinitiatives. TheEDshouldbepreparedtotaketheClubtoanewlevelofexcellence; increase fundraising; build upon the Club’s many partnerships; and grow, broaden and strengthen JHSC’s pipeline of athletes.
Work Environment
While JHSC headquarters are located at the base of Snow King Mountain in downtown Jackson, Wyoming, training and competition takes place in a variety of venues throughout the community, region, nation and world.
Job Responsibilities
In general, this position encompasses the following primary skill areas: building and carrying out the organization’s vision, management and leadership, fiscal oversight, fundraising, personnel and program oversight, marketing/community relations, and education coordination. Please see the Job Description for more details.
Desired Characteristics & Qualifications
Education & Training:
Minimum of an undergraduate degree; desired fields of study include business, marketing and education
Experience:
Minimum of ten to fifteen years of high level leadership and management experience, preferably in a winter sports club or similar organization
Experience working with a variety of stakeholders (coaches, athletes, parents, donors, schools, partners, government agencies, etc…)
Experience with winter sports and high level athletic competition
Fundraising and development experience
Skills and Qualities:
Strong leadership, management strategic planning and organizational skills
Proven fundraising/development skills
Mature judgment and proven fiduciary responsibility
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
Intellectual curiosity
Strong personal commitments to excellence and service to the community
Ability to work with a variety of personalities and backgrounds
Team player with ability to delegate
Highly developed attention to detail
Flexibility and sense of humor
Hiring Requirements
In addition to skill and experience qualifications, JHSC will perform a variety of background and reference checks. It also reserves the right to conduct drug testing and personality/career assessment evaluations.
Considerations
Jackson Hole is a location that appeals year‐round to a limited number of people, so the importance of lifestyle cannot be underestimated. Any serious applicant must carefully assess his/her ability to live in a small, remote resort community, with a high cost of living, many hours from any major city.
Compensation
The Board of Directors determines and sets compensation for the ED. The following benefits are offered:
Employee medical, dental and vision insurance, paid 100% by JHSC
Four weeks paid vacation
Ski passes to Snow King and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Moving/relocation expenses, if applicable, and as approved by the Board of Directors
Biathlon Alberta, the provincial governing body for the sport of biathlon, is hiring a Canmore‐based Events Coordinator for the 2014‐15 season. This contract position will involve working approximately 40 days between November 24th and March 24th, assisting with the production of Biathlon Alberta events around Alberta.
Duties of the position include:
Set‐up online race registrations
Prepare race files, biathlon race timing
Equipment hauling
Train and manage timing volunteers
Tabulation of series points, shooting percentages, and other data
Posting results, photos, race reports to website and other mediaRequirements of the position include:
Ability to lift heavy objects and work outside in winter conditions
Ability to work long hours in demanding conditions
Ability to train and work with volunteers
Willing to travel within Alberta and work weekends
Comfortable driving a large van in winter conditions
Familiarity with computers, Microsoft Excel
Some technical aptitude with computers, timing devices
To apply for this position please submit a resume by November 14th to:
The New York State Ski Racing Association – Nordic Division (NYSSRA-Nordic) is seeking a new Executive Director.
Previously, NYSSRA-Nordic has been managed by an all-volunteer group of board members, committee chairs committed to building a race series for cross-country, ski-o and biathlon.
Having recently earned its 501(c)(3) status NYSSRA has been developing new possibilities with regards to fundraising, applying for grants and financially supporting the great clubs and organizations that comprise the New York nordic community.
As NYSSRA moves into this new era of possibilities, the board is currently seeking interested applicants for a paid position as an Executive Director.
Please read the following details about this position and forward it to anyone interested with appropriate experience who is interested in seeking out funds to grow nordic skiing in New York State. While the compensation is currently very modest (to match NYSSRA’s current operating limits), there is great opportunity for it to grow in the future.
NYSSRA-Nordic, Inc. is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt public charity organization under the Internal Revenue Code. A contribution beyond membership fees paid is fully tax-deductible under Section 170 of the Code. NYSSRA-Nordic works in conjunction with state and national governing bodies to support the development of Nordic sports in New York State. NYSSRA currently supports clubs, programs and races for the Nordic disciplines of Biathlon, Cross Country Skiing and Ski Orienteering.
Position Details:
The Executive Director is the Chief Executive Officer of NYSSRA Nordic Inc. The Executive Director is a non-voting executive who reports to the Executive Board, and is responsible for the organization’s consistent achievement of its mission and financial objectives as outlined and updated by the Executive Board. This Executive Director of NYSSRA Nordic is a yearly contract position that can be renewed an indeterminate amount of times by the acting Executive Board. In program development and administration, the Executive Director will:
Specific Responsibilities:
1. Work with the Executive Board to develop long-range strategy which achieves its mission, and toward which it makes consistent and timely progress. NYSSRA’s (four) main goals are as follows:
To increase participation by people of all ages in nordic sports including xc skiing, ski-orienteering and biathlon.
To identify and obtain to financially support the work of sanctioned nordic ski clubs and incentivize ways for local ski clubs to become more active
To work with Bill Koch Youth Ski Clubs in NY to reach more elementary age kids and introduce them to the sport of nordic skiing. This involves financial support and promotional support.
To help groups boost trail and ski infrastructure around New York State through grant writing and financial assistance
2. Provide leadership in developing program, organizational and financial plans with the Executive Board and staff, and carry out plans and policies authorized by the board. The role of the Executive Director in this capacity will focus on seeking out and applying for grants that are applicable to the plans of NYSSRA Nordic.
3. The Executive Director will establish sound working relationships and cooperative arrangements with community groups, NYSSRA club leaders, and key organizations. He/she will be the primary contact with the standing NENSA Executive Director and will work to develop a system of accountability that will help improve the performance of the individuals on the Executive Board as outlined in the Organizational Structure posted on the NYSSRA website.
Qualifications:
-Bachelor’s degree minimum.
-Experience in grant writing and a proven track record in fundraising. Successful Cultivation of major donors would be a plus.
-Experience with board leadership in a staff or lay leader role highly desirable.
-Demonstrated experience in budget management.
-Excellent written and oral communications skills.
-Demonstrated administrative computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Office suite, particularly Word and Excel, and data management software.
-Ability to work flexible hours, as required by the demands of the role.
Compensation
1. The Executive Director will receive an annual stipend of $1,500.00 paid in two separate installments (on April 1st and December 1st) from the General Fund of NYSSRA Nordic. Additionally, the Executive Director will receive 15% of funding sources that are added to the general fund in support of the NYSSRA mission that do not include NYSSRA memberships, sanctioning fees and race fees. The 15% of additional fund shall be paid out by the NYSSRA Treasurer upon receipt of monetary amount.
Application Deadline:
1/31/2015
How to Apply:
Please attach your resume and cover letter in an email to nyssranordicski@gmail.com. Please include “Executive Director NYSSRA Nordic” in the subject line of your email.
The Jackson Hole Ski & Snowboard Club is pleased to announce the hiring of Ben Morley as our Nordic Program Director and Head Coach. Ben was born and raised in Jackson Hole and has spent his life Nordic racing and coaching. After competing at the junior level with JHSC, Ben raced at the NCAA Division 1 College level for Western State College, with a podium at Junior Nationals.
Subsequent to his junior racing career, he finished his degree at the University of Oregon and University of Oslo in Norway. In the following years, he returned to Jackson where he coached the Teewinots, Junior Nordic and IMD teams as well as the Master’s Program at JHSC. Ben also served as the Head Coach at the Glacier Nordic Ski Club in Whitefish, Montana where he took three athletes to Junior Nationals.
Ben’s passion for the sport and our community will help him lead our program to new heights. He has already begun working with our IMD Team and looks forward to working with our Junior and Master’s athletes in the coming months.
The Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club is looking for a Nordic Program Manager and one or two Nordic Base Camp Directors (one in Aspen and one in Carbondale). All positions are part time and seasonal. For the right candidate, positions could be combined into a part-time/year-round or full-time/6-month position.
See job descriptions and links to applications below.
Applicants should send cover letter, resume, and references to Maria Stuber at mstuber@teamavsc.org.
Position Title: AVSC Nordic Program Manager
Reports To: AVSC Nordic Program Director
Job Objective: The AVSC Nordic Program is designed to support the AVSC mission with a focus on athlete centered programs inspiring EXCELLENCE, creating OPPORTUNITY and instilling AVSC VALUES.
The Nordic Program Manager will support the Nordic Program Director by managing and administering Nordic program fundraising, special events, communications, merchandise ordering, venue projects, and enrollment.
Scope: The Nordic Program Manager works under the general supervision of the Nordic Program Director. The position is a seasonal part-time position with approximately 30 hours per week from September to March. This position is not entitled to AVSC benefits.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Participate in venue development meetings, take notes and complete specific venue related tasks as they arise.
Manage the race sign-up form on the AVSC Nordic blog
Promote AVSC special events and fundraisers
Update the Nordic Calendar
Recruit and manage Nordic event volunteers
Manage the AVSC Nordic Facebook Page and WordPress Blog
Oversee all aspects of AVSC Nordic Fundraisers, special events and races
Ski Swap & Fit Night, Sept 16th
Bonfire Dinner
Nordic Fest/Rocky Mountain Nordic Finals
Night of the Norseman
Design and order AVSC uniforms and merchandise
Develop systems to facilitate better communication with the Nordic community
Participate in designated staff meetings and training sessions
Assist with and participate in Club-wide functions
Assist with Nordic participant recruitment and community development ideas
Free Ski Days
Luminary Skis
Special projects as assigned
REQUIRED SKILLS
Background screened and cleared for interaction with youth.
Full endorsement of AVSC Core Values – Commitment, Teamwork and Integrity
Competence with essential computer applications including: MS Office, Google Calendars, Outlook, WordPress website applications.
General understanding of competitive Nordic ski racing logistics
Communication skills – written and oral – personable and well spoken.
Enthusiastic, conscientious and respectful.
Strong organizational skills with ability to prioritize tasks and to meet deadlines.
Job Objective: The AVSC Nordic Program is designed to support the AVSC mission with a focus on athlete centered programs inspiring EXCELLENCE, creating OPPORTUNITY and instilling AVSC VALUES.
The Nordic Base Camp Director is responsible for developing fun and exciting base camp curriculum that will engage children ages 5-12, and foster a love for winter sports. The Director will work with four or more coaches and several parent volunteers to run Base Camp programs out of Aspen or Carbondale. The Base Camp Director will lead all practices and coordinate staff so that practices are organized and run smoothly. The Base Camp Director must have excellent communication skills and be comfortable instructing a large coaching staff and talking to parents. The position is best suited for a ski coach with a gregarious, fun, creative, adventurous personality and also strong managerial, organizational, and marketing skills.
Scope: The Base Camp Director/Head Coach works under the general supervision of the Nordic Program Director. The position is part time, with 3 months (January, February, and March) of practices where the person will spend about 15 scheduled hours per week working with 5-10 year old athletes in Aspen and Carbondale. In addition, the Base Camp Director will be expected to work during the month of December to promote the Nordic programs, recruit from local schools, and host “Free-Ski Days.” The position will have a significant amount of flexible prep, planning, and event hosting hours that are more flexible and can be year round. The position is compensated on an hourly basis and is not entitled to AVSC benefits.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Organize and coordinate all Base Camp activities including scheduled practices (Monday & Wednesday) and some weekend events emphasizing skill development, safety, fair play, sportsmanship and FUN
Work with AVSC Nordic Director to develop a fun and engaging Base Camp curriculum
Ensure equal participation time for all athletes regardless of ability
Understand, agree and integrate AVSC’s vision, mission and core values into all areas of programming
Develop ways to best record and track attendance and athlete progress for all Base Camp programs
Implement program design and technical progressions throughout Base Camp programs
Lead set up and tear down of Base Camp program gear and Nordic Fun Park equipment
Manage and lead Base Camp coaching staff and parent volunteers
Coordinate recruitment of athletes to Base Camp programs and beyond
Provide Nordic Program Director with incident statistics for Base Camp programs
Provide Nordic Program Director with weekly Base Camp staff payroll numbers
Ensure base camp news is submitted to the Nordic Manager for publication in a timely fashion
Attend Nordic equipment night and provide guidance to Base Camp athletes and parents
Be able and prepared to fix small equipment issues at practice
Attend all staff training exercises and orientation opportunities and set the pace with a willingness to improve at the job
Continued development as a sport professional – coaches certification, first aid training, concussion certification, child protection training, etc
Assist Nordic Program Director with Base Camp staff training
Arrange and participate in parent and athlete coach conferences as necessary
Create a positive work environment for staff to grow and improve
Required Skills:
Background screened and cleared for interaction with youth
Current First Aid and CPR certification
Certification in recognition and response for concussion injuries
Safe Sport Practice training
Enthusiasm and positive spirit
The ability to make every child feel like a winner at practice every day
Patience, maturity, and dependability
Ability to think outside the box, dream, plan, prioritize and follow through on projects
Recognized by others of sound character, strong moral values and personal ethics
Make good decisions and always err on the side of caution
Be constantly aware of risk management issues with our own athletes, coaches and public near our training space
Good organizational and communication skill
Age appropriate coaching experience capable of engaging various ability levels
Must have or be willing to obtain USSA Level 100 Coaching Certification
Be proficient in MS Office, Google Calendars, E-Mail and Website applications
Other desirable characteristics: strong work ethic, accountability, good leaderships skills, a positive attitude, being a team player, personable, well spoken and respectful
Nordic Base Camp Program Objective: AVSC’s Base Camp programs aim to make children LOVE being on skis and to teach them basic athletic skills that will prepare them for participation in future AVSC programs. At the beginner, athletes will play games, have fun, and do absolutely no “training.” Coaches will encourage participation in all sports and develop a game based curriculum that helps develop basic motor sills, balance, and coordination to create general non-specific athletic ability. The advanced curriculum will be similar, with the addition of some fun, short races and drills to develop suppleness and speed. All Nordic Base Camp athletes will be introduced to skiing fundamentals with the main focus remaining on general athletic body movements, games, and fun.
MANSFIELD NORDIC CLUB DEVELOPMENT TEAM COACHING POSITION
Mansfield Nordic Club seeks to hire a Junior Team Development coach to lead our top youth skiers toward higher level skiing on our Junior Competition team. Our new coach will be a high-energy skier with strong communication, leadership and interpersonal skills. The position is for approximately 15-20 hours per week, November 2014-March 2015. There is likely potential for this position to lead into the Head Coach for our Junior Competition Team in May 2015.
Our new coach will have primary responsibilities for:
Coaching our Development Team with 10-12 fast, motivated skiers, age 12-16, who strive to make the MNC Competition Team. Several of these skiers are among the top in New England and ready for specialized technique and race coaching.
Provide motivation, technique development and race savvy in a fun and energetic environment.
Create a passion & joy for skiing with determination & toughness to be the best skier they can be.
Collaborate closely with BKL and Competition Team head coaches to bridge athletes from the BKL youth program to the Junior Competition Team
Expand the number of female athletes transitioning from BKL to Junior Team
Provide race support at 8 NENSA Eastern Cup races and at 3-4 BKL races
Design individualized training programs for each athlete with long & short range goal setting
Lead and train a parent volunteer wax team
Actively communicate and coordinate with parents and with school ski team coaches
Mansfield Nordic Club is one of the largest and most diverse Nordic ski clubs in New England with programs for 200+ skiers age 7-70.
Our home training facility is the Ethan Allen Biathlon Range in Jericho, Vermont with snowmaking, lights, piston bully grooming, challenging competition level trails, stadium, full biathlon range, large lodge and 5km paved roller ski system. We also train at numerous facilities including Trapp Family Lodge and Craftsbury Outdoor Center. Our members range from recreational fitness skiers to top competitive skiers.
Our youth, junior, collegiate and masters skiers have been on the podium at the New England BKL Festival, Junior Nationals, NCAA competitions and Masters National and World championships. We provide programs for Bill Koch League recreation skiers, Bill Koch League Race Team, Junior Development Team, Junior Competition Team and Masters fitness and Masters competitive groups.
In addition to our winter skiing programs, we host a summer training program for junior skiers, a fall training program and a Thanksgiving Camp with former Olympic skier Garrott Kuzzy.
(August, 2014) LEAVENWORTH, Wash. — The Leavenworth Winter Sports Club is seeking a Head Coach/Program Director to work with its Nordic Program, serving kindergarten through high school age skiers and competitive racers. This is an exciting opportunity to join an established Club with very successful programs and develop a comprehensive Nordic Program for all ages.
This is a seasonal, salaried position (December through March) that requires availability for weekly practice and perform other aspects of running the team including travel to scheduled races and camps. The position is seasonal part-time (June -November) as off-season training programs are developed.
Qualifications:
1. Energetic and highly self-motivated
2. Collegiate or national level racing and/or coaching experience
3. Planning, budgeting and organizing skills
4. Team leadership
5. Strong written and verbal communication skills
Duties include:
1. Guide and develop the overall LWSC Nordic Program structure and vision
2. Athlete education and coaching, with an emphasis on fitness, technique and skill development
3. Supervise and conduct safe, fun and developmentally appropriate practices and activities for each age group.
4. Plan, develop, and implement training plans and practice sessions for high school age skiers
5. Identify strengths and weaknesses of athletes
6. Nurture and develop athletes’ potential skills and abilities
7. Analyze and evaluate athlete’s performances and modify training programs
8. Maintain scheduling with different age group practices
9. Work with and manage assistant coaches and parent volunteers conducting practices, waxing, events, races, and carpooling.
10. Communicate with athletes and families by email, website, and social media about schedules and upcoming events (LWSC staff will assist in these duties when applicable).
11. Attend races with the team. Coordinate waxing (both classic and skate) and wax testing while at races.
12. Assist in fundraisers and functions over the course of the year.
The Crested Butte Nordic Team, located in Crested Butte, CO, is accepting resumes for the position of Recreational Programs Coordinator. This is a part-time, seasonal position running from November-March.
Job responsibilities include planning and leading practices for youth skiers in cross-country skiing and biathlon, as well as assisting with team fundraisers and supporting the team at other events. Applicants should be able to demonstrate experience in Nordic sports and youth programming. Qualified applicants will also show enthusiasm for the competitive and non-competitive sides of Nordic sports.
The Crested Butte Nordic Team is a non-profit ski club with roughly eighty participants, offering programming for skiers ages 5-19. Salary range is $6,000-$7,000 depending on experience. Please send resume and cover letter to cbskiteam@gmail.com or call Austin at (207) 227-3843 for more information.
XC Ottawa is looking to hire a part time coach to oversee our athletes’ training and development. We currently have 11 athletes as well as 2 summer training partners. Our team is self-administered and all trip organization, team administration and other duties are performed by the team. We require a coach to design training programs, organize and run weekly practices, as well as monitor athletes’ training.
This position is part-time, and would involve a level of commitment of approximately 10 hours/week. The duties of the coach would include:
Designing personalized yearly training program for all XC Ottawa athletes.
Organizing and providing coaching support for 2 group training sessions per week (one weeknight practice, and one weekend morning practice).
Monitoring athlete’s training via SportLog.ca and providing feedback.
Providing race support/waxing at major races (particularly Nationals and Trials).
Attending major training camps (2-3 three-day weekends per year).
The ideal candidate will have previous experience coaching high-level senior cross-country skiers. Coaches must be sufficiently fit to ski, rollerski or run with athletes, and have sufficient background in skiing to provide technical feedback to athletes. Remuneration will depend on the certification and experience of the applicant.
Requirements
Must have train to compete coaching level, or equivalent.
Must have strong technical background in skiing.
Must have previous sport coaching experience.
If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit the following documents to Karl Saidla at info@xcottawa.ca before July 15th, 2014.
Cover letter and CV, highlighting your qualifications and experience you would bring to the team.
Two references, including name and contact information (at least one ski related contact).
If you have any questions, please ask us at the same email address.
Teton Valley Ski Education Foundation (TVSEF) based out of Driggs, Idaho, wishes to retain a head coach who will have primary responsibility of coaching our middle school and high school aged team members.
The head coach will also have the responsibility of the day to day planning, administration, and oversight of all our Junior Nordic Programs. The job will be salaried and seasonal from approximately October – March.
The Red Deer Nordic Ski Club in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada is looking to hire a full-time coach to oversee our Learn to Train (L2T), Train to Train (T2T) and Learn to Compete (L2C) programs (9-18 year olds) for the 2014/2015 season. We currently have 40 athletes in these 3 programs competing at local, provincial and national levels. Red Deer is a city of 100,000 with 2 cross country ski areas used as our training base.
Coaching duties will include developing training schedules for our L2C athletes, designing and leading training sessions (weekday evenings and weekends), and coaching at fall and winter training camps. As head coach you will work with our assistant coaches and attend regional, provincial and possibly national competitions. The position includes coaching dryland sessions (September to start of snow season) and on snow training sessions to end of March.
This position is a full time contract offering a competitive salary($30K minimum).
Duties include:
Conduct safe, fun and developmentally appropriate practices for L2T, T2T and/or L2C programs with the support of volunteer coaches and parents.
Work with assistant coaches in developing training schedules and programs
Communicate with athletes and families by email and website about schedule and upcoming events
Coordinate and attend out of town races and camps
Provide race support including waxing
The ideal candidate will be a skier and/or coach with experience at the junior or senior racing level working with cross country skiers, with coaching certification. Previous coaching experience is required. Coaches must be able to run and ski with the athletes and demonstrate good technique.
Contract runs late August 2014 – April 2015. Compensation is competitive and dependent on qualifications and experience. Red Deer Nordic is committed to developing our coaches and will pay for coaches to attend coaching certification courses.
If interested in applying, please submit the following documents to Brian Johnson, Co-ordinator, Red Deer Nordic Ski Club, at brian.johnson@rdpsd.ab.ca
Cover letter and resume, highlighting why you want to coach junior cross country skiers, your qualifications and what skills, experiences and background experiences you would bring to this position.
Two references including name and contact information (at least one ski related contact)
The Leavenworth Winter Sports Club in Leavenworth, Wash., is seeking a Head Coach/Program Director to work with its Nordic Program, serving kindergarten through high school age skiers and competitive racers. This is an exciting opportunity to join an established Club with very successful programs and develop a comprehensive Nordic Program for all ages.
This is a seasonal salaried position (December through March) that requires availability for weekly practice and perform other aspects of running the team including travel to scheduled races and camps. The position is seasonal part-time (June -November) as off-season training programs are developed.
Qualifications:
Energetic and highly self-motivated
Collegiate or national level racing and/or coaching experience
Planning, budgeting and organizing skills
Team leadership
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Duties include:
Guide and develop the overall LWSC Nordic Program structure and vision
Athlete education and coaching, with an emphasis on fitness, technique and skill development
Supervise and conduct safe, fun and developmentally appropriate practices and activities for each age group.
Plan, develop, and implement training plans and practice sessions for high school age skiers
Identify strengths and weaknesses of athletes
Nurture and develop athletes’ potential skills and abilities
Analyze and evaluate athlete’s performances and modify training programs
Maintain scheduling with different age group practices
Work with and manage assistant coaches and parent volunteers conducting practices, waxing, events, races, and carpooling.
Communicate with athletes and families by email, website, and social media about schedules and upcoming events (LWSC staff will assist in these duties when applicable).
Attend races with the team. Coordinate waxing (both classic and skate) and wax testing while at races.
Assist in fundraisers and functions over the course of the year.
The Soldier Hollow Legacy Foundation (SHLF) Board of Directors is seeking decisive, focused, and visionary leaders to apply for the position of Executive Director.
About the Soldier Hollow Legacy Foundation:
A non-profit 501(c) (3) corporation based in the southwest corner of the Heber Valley, SHLF oversees the facilities and programming of the Soldier Hollow venue, which hosted the cross-country skiing, biathlon, and Nordic combined events during the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Olympic & Paralympic Games. Today, Soldier Hollow is a year-round facility focused on recreational, youth, and elite level sports programs. Soldier Hollow also provides winter snow tubing and hosts multiple events during the summer. At all times, the organization and its staff work to promote Olympic and Paralympic ideals, and expand opportunities for people in the communities it serves.
Overview of Position:
Reporting to the Chairman of the Board of Directors, the Executive Director ensures the consistent excellence of programming and facilities in furtherance of the Foundation’s mission.
Major Functions & Responsibilities:
Executive Leadership — Translates the mission of the Foundation and intent of the Board into day-to-day operational excellence. Responsible for the culture within the organization.
Board Administration & Support — Informs and advises the Board on the activities of the Foundation, allowing it to fulfill its governance role.
Personnel Management — Recruits, leads, and mentors the staff, providing direction and motivation to both paid and unpaid individuals. Promotes a collaborative and respectful work environment.
Budgetary — Prepares the annual budget for review and approval by the Board. Prudently manages finances with appropriate accounting controls. Cooperates with independent auditors in their review of performance, and thoroughly considers recommendations.
Facilities Management — Oversees the operations and maintenance of the Soldier Hollow venue and related facilities. Manages the long-term maintenance plan and carefully prioritizes investments as they align with the Foundation’s mission and financial strategy.
Safety — Properly manages risks inherent in operating a sports-oriented facility. Proactively works with stakeholders to incorporate concerns about safety into policies and procedures.
Programming — Grows opportunities for recreational, youth, and elite level training in cross-country skiing, biathlon, and Nordic combined at the venue, including continuation of partnership with the Soldier Hollow Charter School.
Events — Collaborates with event organizers on the successful hosting of events at Soldier Hollow. Solicits new events consistent with the Foundation’s mission to expand year-round use of facilities. Partners with community governments and organizations to integrate events into the local tourism framework.
NGB Cooperation — Works with the U.S. Olympic Committee, U.S. Ski & Snowboard Association, and U.S. Biathlon Association to align event hosting and programming strategies with national high performance goals.
Revenue Generation — Thinks creatively to launch new activities, products, and events consistent with the Foundation’s mission. Researches grant and partnership opportunities to offset maintenance and programming costs. Establishes collaborative relationships with state government and other entities to drive investment in the venue.
Contracts — Negotiates, manages, and reviews contracts with partners and event organizers on behalf of the Foundation. Keeps the Foundation in good-standing as a concessionaire of the State of Utah.
Applicant Qualifications:
Significant experience managing organizations with annual revenues of $1 million or more.
Demonstrated revenue generation and budget management skills.
Experience in sports programming and events, with a passion for Nordic sports.
Strong and proven leadership skills, including the ability to inspire and motivate, communicate effectively, solve problems, mediate conflicts, build relationships, and make decisions.
Working knowledge of non-profit organizations and experience working with boards of directors and volunteers.
Knowledge of ski trail grooming, snow-making equipment, and maintenance.
Ability to oversee the move of the venue’s ticketing systems online.
Functional-level knowledge of marketing, public relations, grant writing, contract negotiation, information technology, and human resources.
Understanding of liability and legal issues inherent in operation of a sports-oriented venue.
Apply:
No later than May 15, 2014, please submit a one-page letter of interest, a resume, and three professional references to the Foundation’s Hiring Committee at soldierhollowlegacy@gmail.com. Questions may also be directed to this email address.
The 2013/2014 Stratton Mountain School T2 Team (from left to right): Head coach Gus Kaeding, Andy Newell, Annie Pokorny, Eric Packer, Jessie Diggins, Sophie Caldwell, Simi Hamilton, Erika Flowers, and nordic program director Sverre Caldwell. (Photo: Annie Hart)
Note: This article has been updated to clarify that Kikkan Randall and Sophie Caldwell became the first two U.S. women to share a World Cup podium at a skate sprint in Lahti, Finland.
Two years ago, no one had ever heard of the Stratton Mountain School T2 Team, not even Stratton’s nordic director, Sverre Caldwell. It didn’t exist.
But the premise of bringing Stratton to the next level of development with its own elite-nordic team was in full swing — Caldwell had hired Gus Kaeding, the former head coach at Central Cross Country (CXC), to lead the six-skier squad, which started out with three then-U.S. Ski Team members (Andy Newell, Jessie Diggins and Skyler Davis) and three Dartmouth grads (Sophie Caldwell, Erika Flowers and Eric Packer).
Sophie Caldwell, Newell and Davis were local Vermonters, and so was Kaeding; he grew up with Newell. It was a team chemistry that was destined for success, at least the way Sverre Caldwell saw it.
Later in the summer of 2012, Stratton landed the T2 Foundation as its title sponsor to meet many of the team’s financial needs. That money went directly to its elite athletes and their expenses, leaving Caldwell to continue seeking for ways to pay his staff members, including Kaeding. Like most nordic teams in the U.S., finances were always a tricky part of the puzzle, but Caldwell assumed that responsibility, leaving the coaching to Kaeding.
Simi Hamilton (U.S. Ski Team/SMS T2 Team) celebrates his victory in the third stage of the Tour de Ski. Hamilton became the first American male to win a stage of the Tour. (Photo: Fischer/Nordic Focus)
For two seasons, the arrangement evolved into something Caldwell never expected. In the spring of 2013, his daughter Sophie was named to the U.S. Ski Team (USST). Diggins was promoted to the A-team, to which Newell also belonged, and another USST member Simi Hamilton joined the Stratton squad.
Suddenly, SMST2 was a powerhouse in the East, with Hamilton winning a sprint stage in the 2013/2014 Tour de Ski, Newell being one of the top-ranked sprinters in the world, and Diggins and Sophie notching consistent top 20’s on the World Cup.
All four went to the Olympics, where Sophie rose to sixth in the skate sprint — the best-ever Olympic finish by a U.S. female nordic skier. When the World Cup resumed again in March, Sophie and Kikkan Randall stood on the Lahti skate-sprint podium together for the first women’s double podium in U.S. cross-country history (Randall won and Sophie was a career-best third).
Caldwell remembered one of the season highlights, in which all four SMST2 skiers made the heats in the Tour de Ski sprint in Lenzerheide, Switzerland. Hamilton went on to win it — a first for a U.S. male — Sophie made the finals for the first time to notch sixth, Newell placed eighth, and Diggins finished 21st.
“Here we are in this little po-town southern Vermont and we have three skiers in the top 10 in the world,” Caldwell said during an interview in Anchorage, Alaska, where the U.S. season-ending races were held two weeks ago.
“I think it attests to the point how well this club model is starting to work,” he added. “APU [Alaska Pacific University] is doing it and we’re doing it and there are all these other programs that are nipping at our heels and trying to do it. Hopefully we have five or six programs that have athletes that are going to the World Cup and being successful.”
Kaeding’s Decision
In the program’s third season, Stratton has been dealt somewhat of a massive blow. Kaeding recently decided to leave the team to pursue a business degree — a career shift he told Caldwell about earlier this year when he was first considering it.
Gus Kaeding at 2012 Junior World Championships
“I realized in ten years I didn’t want to be ski coaching,” Kaeding, 29, said while also in Anchorage at SuperTour Finals and U.S. Distance Nationals. “That may not be the case next year, but if I don’t want to do it in ten years, why would I want to do it next year? That’s just the way my mind works.”
When the thought popped into his mind, he turned to Caldwell, his high-school coach.
“His advice was, is if your heart’s not totally it in then you shouldn’t do it longer,” Kaeding said.
“I kept hoping he’d change his mind,” Caldwell said with a laugh. “That was a really comfortable fit in that … we had the same training philosophy and stuff like that. He was someone I could very easily step back and not mettle with and just do the behind-the-scenes stuff and let him do the coaching. He did a great job and obviously he’s gonna be missed.”
Not one for fanfare or farewells, Kaeding kept his decision in February between him and Caldwell, waiting until after the Olympics to tell the team via email. Some of his athletes were with him at the time in Switzerland, but he explained it was the best way to let everyone know simultaneously.
“I just wanted to treat it as not a big deal,” Kaeding said. “I got a really nice email back from Andy [Newell]. We’ve always been friends, but we almost never really talk that much. … When we come together, we’re just friends. Anytime there’s any separate correspondence, it’s either something’s wrong or something really good happened. So he sent me back a really nice email and said he supported the decision and was happy for me.”
On March 13, Caldwell wrote a blog thanking Kaeding for leading the team for two years. “His dedication and coaching have been outstanding,” the post read. “We are in the process of reviewing everything and discussing how to make the team better than ever and we will continue to flourish. Gus, THANK YOU, and good luck with your future endeavors!”
Specifically, Kaeding plans to apply to business school in the next six months and is interested in specializing in finance. First he’ll see out his contract with Stratton through the end of June, helping a new coach — which he expects will be hired by May — transition over the next few months.
“I haven’t made any decisions where I’d like to go yet,” Kaeding explained. “I’ll educate myself about the process a little more over the coming months and that should shed some light on destinations.”
One area he was considering was Boston. His brother, six years younger, was recently accepted into a master’s program in biomechanical engineering there.
“Now people think that he’s the smarter brother, which is not that case, so I can’t have that,” Kaeding said. “Since I went away to school when I was 15, we’ve really never been around each other that much. I’m closer to him in Vermont, but I still almost never see him. So I’ve tossed around the idea of going to live with him for a little bit in Boston.”
Stratton Mountain School T2 Team Head Coach Gus Kaeding testing skis at SuperTour Finals last month at Kincaid Park in Anchorage, Alaska.
A native of Worcester, Vt., Kaeding explained that he could very well end up in Vermont, but “I’m not gonna live at my parents’ house. … I’d like to be around a few more people I think.”
As for what prompted the move, Kaeding said he was looking for a new challenge after the Olympics, and he wasn’t sure he was ready to coach at the next level.
“When I started the team, Andy was one of my best friends — still is — and one of my personal biggest motivators was to help him do well at this Olympics,” he said. “As the team grew and I got close to everyone … it was to help a number of people really do well at the Olympics. I’m pretty confident we prepared everyone just about as well as we could have for the Olympics.”
As the 2014 Winter Games got closer, Kaeding wondered what was next.
“There were other things that were really exciting for me and also, ski coaching is really hard,” he said with a laugh. “Especially if you want to do it really, really well. Not that I do it really, really well — I think that if I want to take that next step, it’s a full commitment. I definitely work every day.”
Those days are long, and while he couldn’t explain what exactly it was that takes its toll, “there’s lots of days when I get back from coaching and I haven’t really worked that hard, I haven’t thought about anything that much, I haven’t skied that much, but you’re so drained. Maybe it’s just focusing all day, but you get back and the only thing you want to do is stare at the wall or zone out doing nothing.”
At this point, Kaeding would like to challenge himself in a different, more academic way. A math major at Northern Michigan University — not because he liked math but because it came easy to him — Kaeding said his undergraduate experience was mostly about ski racing.
“Being in college and focused on skiing it’s a different way of going to college than a lot of people do it,” he said. “I wouldn’t mind going back to graduate school. I still like numbers. One of my hobbies is the stock market. I realize that it would be hard after this to sit at a desk for hours and hours, but the prospect of doing something that’s challenging for my mind more than my body is enticing.”
The Coaching Pipeline
For a 29-year-old coach of one of the most successful clubs in the U.S., a job with the U.S. Ski Team might not have been too far fetched. Kaeding said the possibility of joining those ranks crossed his mind, but he also realized how hard the national-team coaches worked.
“I saw what those guys did, and I thought maybe I could make something almost similar but better at Stratton,” he said. “This club model that we have going is really good … The four coaches on the U.S. Ski Team are probably the best coaches in the country and that’s why they’re there, but I almost think the less they do, the better. Just because they’re so far removed during the summer from a lot of these athletes, because of the geography of the country, because they have their own lives, too.”
Kaeding liked the club model because it allowed teammates to stick together and be competitive with one another, making physical gains as if they were training year-round with their USST teammates, which many of them were.
“I envisioned that happening at SMS, but maybe I just can’t quite wait for that,” Kaeding added. “It might be a little longer. I think we got a good start on it.”
He said he’s received “nothing but support,” regarding his decision, including U.S. coach Matt Whitcomb suggesting he pursue whatever made him happy.
“That was always nice to hear from someone in his position,” Kaeding said.
As for Stratton, he’s confident the team will carry on as usual, reaching higher levels of success in the coming seasons.
Annie Pokorny (l) and Erika Flowers of the SMST2 team training on March 21 at Kincaid Park in Anchorage, Alaska, before the first races of SuperTour Finals there.
“I think we hold our athletes responsible to themselves more than other clubs or teams,” Kaeding said. “Stupid little things: they wax their own skis lots of times, but also I encourage them to almost be able to write their own training plans so that they’re cognizant of how they’re feeling day to day.
“They’re all pretty mature and they can all basically write their own training plans so they would be OK, I think, completely on their own,” he explained.
“That being said, the group dynamic is one of our strengths, and I just think when a new coach comes in, it won’t be that hard. He or she will be able to sit back and learn from them for a while and see where she or he is needed. That’s all I kind of did anyway.”
Caldwell posted the job opening last week, and said he was looking to hire by early April — end of June at the latest. He’ll continue to oversee Stratton’s various nordic programs as director, and hopes he won’t have to take too much time away from helping his younger skiers if they can’t get a replacement in time. Matt Boobar currently coaches the older boys, Chase Marston assists Caldwell with the girls team, and Poppet Boswell coaches the younger juniors.
Gus Kaeding (in orange) and SMS Program Director Sverre Caldwell (in blue) meet with several senior skiers and older juniors during a rollerski workout in August 2012 near Stratton, Vt.
“If I can hire a new person, it would be really important for Gus to talk to the new coach,” Caldwell said. “You just want everything to be logical progression. It’s nice that he’s fading out, but he’s still available.
“We have a great group and we’ll be great moving ahead,” he added. “When I talk to people I’m going to be talking about their philosophy of training and stuff like that, and I assured athletes the same deal, I said it’s going to be a variation in a theme, it’s not going to be something totally new or take you two years to get used to.”
In terms of interest, Caldwell said a couple weeks ago he had no idea what he would get for applications. A few people inquired when he posted the blog about Kaeding, but he wanted to get through the season and talk to his athletes before creating a job description and setting up interviews.
“The only thing that’s really gonna change is the person that’s there,” Caldwell explained. “Obviously it sucks, but I don’t think it’s gonna kill us or anything, it’s just we have to find someone else. The whole outline of what we’re trying to do remains the same and the athletes understand that.”
The Bigger Picture
Reflecting on his coaching career, Kaeding said there were a lot of highlights, but he considers the thriving club model to be the best of them.
“Even going back to CXC, we were really successful there, then really successful at SMS,” he said. “I’ve heard blowings in the wind of a lot of other clubs sprouting up now. I think they said, ‘They did it, we can figure out how to do it. We’ve got to get creative.’ We got creative.
“At some point we’re going to hit a threshold where there’s too many clubs, and sooner or later, that’ll even out. There will be too many clubs and one year there will be three going under. Then it’ll come back. I mean it’s good for sure. More competition’s always good.”
Those supply-and-demand aspects of developing U.S. skiing still interest Kaeding and remain something he could see himself delving into.
“I think there’s a lot of things out there in nordic skiing that there’s just no one doing because it’s not worth their time,” he said. “I don’t know how USSA works … I don’t know how things are marketed … I’d like to go to school a little bit more to learn if it’s conceivable to push nordic skiing into another realm from kind of a different perspective.
“It’s easy to say, ‘Coach, coach, coach and the athletes will get better,’ but I don’t really see anyone attacking it from the business side,” he added. “I can say that now; I don’t know if I’d actually do that, but it’s probably a pretty good angle to get into business school at the very least.”
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announce the hiring of Ben Morley as our Nordic Program Director and Head Coach. Ben was born and raised in Jackson Hole and has spent his life Nordic racing and coaching. After competing at the junior level with JHSC, Ben raced at the NCAA Division 1 College level for Western State College, with a podium at Junior Nationals.
![Mansfield Nordic Logo](http://fasterskier.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2014/08/mnc_logo-e1386632036131.jpg"){kind=logo}
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![Soldier Hollow logo](http://fasterskier.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2014/04/soldier-hollow-.jpg")
![The 2013/2014 Stratton Mountain School T2 Team (from left to right): Head coach Gus Kaeding, Andy Newell, Annie Pokorny, Eric Packer, Jessie Diggins, Sophie Caldwell, Simi Hamilton, Erika Flowers, and nordic program director Sverre Caldwell. (Photo: Annie Hart)](http://fasterskier.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2013/07/L-to-R-Head-Coach-Gus-Kaeding-Andy-Newell-Annie-Pokorny-Eric-Packer-Jessie-Diggins-Sophie-Caldwell-Simi-Hamilton-Erika-Flowers-SMS-Nordic-Program-Director-Sverre-Caldwell.jpg")
![Simi Hamilton (U.S. Ski Team) celebrates his victory in the third stage of the Tour de Ski. Hamilton is the first American male to win a stage of the Tour. (Photo: Fischer/Nordic Focus)](http://fasterskier.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2014/01/Group311213mf011.jpg")
![Gus Kaeding at World Juniors this winter.](http://fasterskier.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2012/05/gus-kaeding.png")
![Stratton Mountain School T2 Team Head Coach Gus Kaeding testing skis at SuperTour Finals last month at Kincaid Park in Anchorage, Alaska.](http://fasterskier.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2014/04/6MVIB.jpeg")
![Annie Pokorney (l) and Erika Flowers of the SMST2 team training on March 21 at Kincaid Park in Anchorage, Alaska, before the first races of SuperTour Finals there.](http://fasterskier.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2014/04/SYhNE.jpeg")
![Gus Kaeding (in orange) and SMS program director Sverre Caldwell (in blue) meet with several senior skiers and older juniors during a double-pole workout near Stratton, Vt. Elite-team members Skyler Davis (left) and Eric Packer (third from right) check in.](http://fasterskier.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2012/08/IMGP6556.jpg")