2004-2005 Nordic Skiing Preview
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The Blake Nordic ski team enters the 2004-2005 season with an excellent foundation and optimism that it will continue to improve on its results from the last two years.
Although, the girls’ team loses one State competitor due to graduation (Kara Johnson) and one all conference skier, the team is poised to improve on their 4th place finish at the Conference and Sectional Meet last year. Returning athletes from last year team include juniors Ellie Peterson (captain), Anne Stake, and Maren Ellingboe, sophomores Claire Richardson (all conference last year and she just missed going to State by a few seconds last year), Molly Haaysen, Laura Christianson, and Julia Maritz. In addition, the Bears have added new team members that will increase both talent and depth. They include, freshmen Steph Shelton, and Jill Avery, sophomores Louise Winslow and Samantha Stein, along with seniors Kate Greenberg and Ashley Bacon.
The boys’ team is continuing to build momentum from recent years. Returning athletes includes seniors Andy Johnson (captain) and Robert Cohen, junior John Abbett (honorable mention all-conference), sophomores Dan Lidral and Matt Floren. New additions include a great group of sophomores Michael Lee, Nuru Baaith, and Jon Hirsh.
Nordic skiing is a sport that requires athletes to be in excellent aerobic condition, as well as strong technically in both skiing disciplines. Blake athletes came to practice in excellent aerobic shape, which allows them to focus on improving their technique. The season’s success is based on two criteria, first- that all athletes have fun (which translates to a life long activity) and second- working together as a team to help each team member meet their team and individual goals.
Coach John Shelp is in his sophomore season as the Bears’ head coach after assisting for two years. Shelp is joined by assistant track and cross country coach Keith Clark to fill out the 04-05 coaching staff.
EMUA is the Bears’ motto for the year meaning “always move forward.”
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