Imagine strapping on Nordic skis, gliding across the snowy course, then the next day jumping into ski boots and racing down the mountain. Several seniors and one sophomore will switch off every day of the week all winter with only Sunday left to maintain their sanity. Known as Skimeisters, Zane Heald, Max Marolt, Christen Lewis, Scotty and Graham Houtsma compete in two races each week, one Nordic and the other Alpine, and twice a week they practice Alpine and in between they gear up for Nordic practice.

Senior Max Marolt has been on both of the ski teams for three years finishing 2^nd in States last year, and is up for a fourth. He has set high goals for himself in the past and his hard work and passion for skiing shows through. Even after all of the practices and competitions, Marolt still loves to hit the slopes on his days off.

“Scotty and I are usually the first in the lift line on Sundays,” Marolt said laughing.

Senior Christen Lewis can’t wait for the season to start especially because this will be his first try at being a Ski Meister.

“I have done Nordic before but never tried competing in Alpine, I’m really excited,” Lewis said.

His passion for skiing makes the goal of becoming a Skimeister seem very attainable although it could definitely be strenuous. Senior Zane Heald, who has competed as a Skimeister for one year previous to this one, loves it but he knows that it is a huge time commitment.

“We spend a lot of time traveling,” Heald said.

There are several reasons these boys have chosen to be Skimeister besides the two varsity letters and their love for snow and skiing.

“It’s fun and challenging. Alpine is probably my favorite because I started with it and it’s less hard but Nordic is still a blast,” Houtsma said.

Statewide, approximately twenty-five athletes participate as Ski Meisters. This proves the dedication and commitment these boys have illustrated because it is not an easy task.

“[The Skimeister’s] work ethic is really amazing,” Nordic coach Travis Moore said. “They always come prepared and are always up for the challenge.”