With the opening of Mt. Brighton this weekend, South Lyon area ski teams are now in full swing.
Practice is held Monday through Thursday at the top of Mt. Brighton at 6 p.m. for about one to two hours “If you’re not there on time, then you hike the hill,” Junior Bree Bidwell says with a laugh.
The team starts practice with stretches and warm up runs while the coaches set up the courses. Practices are fun with a great team bond, “The chairlift rides are probably the best part of practice,” Junior Cali Schauer says.
Bidwell and Schauer think joining the ski team would be a great opportunity to make new friends and to stay busy, “We are always looking for new people,” Schauer shares.
Last season, the team had about 30-40 members; this year they’re hoping to keep the numbers just as high. Ski is a no-cut sport and everyone who joins will be received with lots of love.
In addition to attending practices almost everyday, the team has races every Tuesday and Thursday. On Tuesdays, they race Slalom, and, on Thursdays, they race Giant Slalom (GS). All of their races take place at Mt. Brighton. The team hardly ever has to travel for a race. They do plan excursions Up North for extra practice at various resorts.
As the season progresses, the sport can get competitive when it comes time for earning a spot on the lineup. Athletes share that this makes it important to always have positive mind throughout the season. “Good friendships definitely help, and also encouraging other people,” says Schauer.
Last year´s Senior team captain Gracie Sigouin says, “I want to improve the culture on the team this year so that everyone has fun and treats each other with kindness.”
Sigouin hopes to be team captain again this year. She states, “It’s a lot of responsibility, but I like the challenge. I really want to make my Senior season the best one, not only for me, but for all of my teammates.”
Sigouin admits her hopes for this season, “I want the team to go to States! I also want to be top 10 in the Mt. Brighton division.”
