Harding Nordic FAQs 2007-08

Do I have to know how to ski to join the team?

No.  Most athletes don't know how when they join the team.  With hard work and dedication, anyone can become a great skier.

Do I have to own my own skis?

No.  The team has some sets of skis to loan out.  This equipment is not very good.  The school's equipment is okay to learn on, but if you want to be a good skier, having your own good equipment helps.  If you are planning to buy skis, see me for possible places to go to get a good deal.

Is skiing hard?

Yes.  Like learning anything new, it takes time to learn how to ski.  Learning to ski is challenging.  Great challenges reap great rewards.

Is it easy to letter in skiing?

No.  Earning a letter is based on a comprehensive point system.  You earn points by attending practice and skiing fast at races.

A first year skier that works hard can earn a letter although it is rare.

When does practice start?

Monday, November 12.  Meet in the cafeteria.  Be prepared to run.  Be prepared to go outside.  Dress for the weather.  Practice starts at 2:30 everyday.

What do need to do to join the team?

Get your forms from the athletic office.  Fill them out and turn them into the athletic office with the $45 fee ($20 if you receive free/reduced lunch).  The athletic office will give you a eligibility card to give to one of your coaches.  You will not be able to practice until you give me this card.  Do this before November 12.

What do we do for practice when there isn't any snow?

We run, lift weights, practice technique, and do other activities to get into shape and get used to the cold air.

 

How often do we practice outside?

Everyday, no matter how cold it is.  Skiing is not for the weak.  Bring warm clothes to work out in outside as well as clothes for the weight room.

Where do we ski for practice?

At many different sites including Battle Creek Park, Phalen Golf Course, Lake Elmo Park Reserve, Cottage Grove Ravine and Como Park Golf Course.

How often will we have ski meets?

About twice a week once the snow flies.

Does the team go on a trip?

Yes. This year the trip will be during Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend (January 19-21).  More information will follow.

What if I do drugs, drink alcohol, or get bad grades while on the team?

Nordic skiing athletes are expected to represent Harding High school on and off the ski course.  Good sportsmanship, tenacious work ethic, and good decision making are characteristics of a good athlete.  There are high expectations for Nordic skiing athletes when it comes to decisions about substance abuse.  If an athlete is caught one time in possession of a controlled substance, the athlete will lose his or her privilege to be on the ski team for the remainder of the season.

Athletes are also expected to be in good academic standing.  If an athlete is falling behind in a class, as a coach, I reserve the right to prevent the athlete from practicing with the team, competing at a meet, or going on the ski trip.

What if I’m scared of joining, falling down, getting hurt, and/or cracking my head open?

People who join skiing are some of the nicest people in the school.  The team is always very welcoming to new skiers.  You will make new friends if you join the team.

You will fall.  Getting hurt is rare because snow is soft.  Plus, new skiers are not very fast so they tend not to fall very hard.  Falling down on skis is part of learning balance.  Everyone falls sometimes, even the most experience skiers.

How can I find out more?

Talk to Mr. Gullickson in room 1320.