About
The Southwest High School (SWHS) Nordic Team strives to provide a superior athletic, team, and community experience for skiers of all levels. Our goals are to improve physical and mental health, encourage personal growth, and develop lifelong skills. We also have fun!
Nordic skiing is open to students in grades 7-12 and includes both classic and skate skiing techniques. We welcome everyone who wants to be part of a fantastic winter sport, improve nordic skiing technique, gain racing experience, and strive to reach their personal best.
To register, follow the team registration checklist on our Join the Team page.
2023-24 SEASON COACHES & CAPTAINS
Head Coach: Greg Rhodes, PhD gregsrhodes@gmail.com
Team Captains: Hazel Hanson, Allie Moran, Olyn Raleigh, Sam Scott, Zoe Sumner
Assistant Coaches: Pete Dahlquist, Susanne Franklin, Devon Hutton, Sarah Makosky, Edith McDonald, Pete Moran, Eric Sumner
PRACTICES
2-day Team Option: We have created an option for skiers who are curious about nordic skiing and the ski team to join us 2-days/week. We continue to welcome all skiers at all practices, but we will have a dedicated coach available on Monday and Thursday to welcome these skiers as they learn to ski for the first time, or are looking for a skiing experience less focused on racing.
Dryland Training: Before snow is on the ground, usually in November, the SWHS Nordic team starts building strength and endurance through various exercises and activities. The team will meet at Southwest High School and head out together to do running, sprint work, and other forms of training.
On-Snow Practices: Once snow is on the ground and the trails are groomed, the team will meet at Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis, or at Hyland Park Reserve in Bloomington, for practices 3-4 times per week. Exact times and dates will be determined by the coaching team and communicated via TeamSnap.
Weight Training: Building strength in all muscle groups helps improve form, prevent injury, and build endurance. The SWHS weight training room will be available to Nordic team members and organized weight training sessions will be offered weekly.
RACES
In general, races are held each week on Tuesday, mid-December through mid-February. Conference championships will be in February. All race information will be posted to the calendar in TeamSnap.
COMMUNICATION
The coaches and athletes will use TeamSnap for communication. It can be used on mobile devices and desktops. Guardians/parents of an athlete can be added to TeamSnap to receive team communications. TeamSnap invitations will be sent at the beginning of the season.
Booster Club information, fundraising events, or other news will be sent through email or other means.
TRANSPORTATION
SWHS does not offer busing to practices or races for the nordic ski team. We strongly encourage parents and athletes to coordinate and carpool as much as possible, as there are several teams in the area using Theodore Wirth and Hyland Park Reserve.
TEAM SKI TRIP
Every season, the Nordic team tries to all gather at a cross-country ski resort in Minnesota or Wisconsin. The trip usually is 3-4 days and occurs over winter break. More information will be shared and a sign up sheet will be sent. The trip is not mandatory, but is highly encouraged. It is a great way to get to know each other and build connections with your teammates!
Email Head Coach: Greg Rhodes gregsrhodes@gmail.com