The Team

The Nevada Union Nordic Ski Team was established in 1984 and is co-ed. The team trains at the Auburn Ski Club Training Center, Donner Summit, CA. The team competes in races organized by the California/Nevada Interscholastic Ski and Snowboard Federation (CNISSF) at locations around the Tahoe Basin and as far south as Mammoth Lakes. Athletes can only participate after being cleared by the school through ArbiterSports.

Our Mission

Nevada Union Nordic team’s mission is to provide an opportunity for students to enjoy cross-country skiing,  where they improve their own fitness and skiing technique, measure their progress by racing, represent their school, and share the camaraderie of the team. Coaches hold the long term well being of the student-athlete as their ultimate objective and most important concern.

Overview of Program.

NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Even if you  have never skied before, if you have some basic fitness and want to make a commitment  to learning cross-country ski racing techniques, this is the place for you. Anyone can join  the team and we have a no-cut policy–all who train with the team can race in the league races.

Team Enrollment

There are multiple steps to joining Nevada Union Nordic Ski Team.

Step 1: Sports physical

Be sure your skier has had a sports physical within the last 3 years, which will be needed for Step 2.

Step 2: School district registration

Complete this step BEFORE the first day of practice.

Step 3: BAND Enrollment

This step adds your skier to the team roster in BAND, where all communications will take place throughout the season. More information about Team Enrollment process is provided below.

Enrollment is complete for the 2024/2025 season.

More FAQ’s…….

Practices

Weekly practices are based on the team's progress, the weather, and a variety of other factors.  Practice information for the upcoming week will be available on the preceding Sunday by 7:00 p.m. on the Schedule and via BAND. Information will include

• Location

• Time

• Skiing method (Classic or Freestyle/Skate)

• Workout details

Because skiing is a sport that is highly dependent upon the weather, it may sometimes be necessary to change practice and meet locations at the last minute. While this may cause inconvenience to some individuals, it is a much better solution than allowing students to ski in unsafe conditions. In all instances in which such changes are made they will be updated in the schedule and communicated via BAND.

Training.

Training will be both on snow and dryland.  When we are on snow we will concentrate on technique more than conditioning. Dryland training will emphasize technique and conditioning and will include ski specific drills, running, weights, and games. Occasionally we will use ski poles in dryland training. Both dryland and on-snow practices will last approx. 1 ½ to 2 hours. See the calendar for details on time and location of practices.

Nordic Skiing

Nordic skiing at NU is an official school sport and counts towards graduation Physical Education requirements. As long as we can arrange transportation, all physically active students are welcome to participate. We have never cut any athlete who has a positive attitude. No previous experience is necessary and beginners are welcome.  Nordic ski racing is an Olympic Sport which develops balance, coordination, endurance and strength. It is a great sport to cross train for summer endurance sports such as running, cycling and rowing (though often after an athlete gets hooked, the perspective changes , and the summer sports are looked at as cross training!).  Nordic Skiing is a lifelong sport.

Team Costs

Compared with other snow sports, Nordic skiing is very economical. We ask for a donation of $200 to cover the wear and tear on equipment and supplies as well as ski passes. The team provides all equipment that the athlete requires: skis, poles, boots, ski bag, roller skis, team uniforms, and windbreakers (except for minor items like gloves, hat, sun glasses and water bottle).  Returning athletes are encouraged to purchase some of their own equipment so that they may continue skiing when they leave school.

Time Commitment

The team starts summer training on June 17 doing dry-land drills, with a focus on core strength and agility training. In the winter, before the snow arrives, we practice Tuesday through Friday after school until 5:30 pm. When the snow arrives (usually mid to late November),  we replace the Wednesday dry-land with on-snow training at the Auburn Ski Club (returning to school by 8:30 pm). The Thursday practices before races are dedicated to waxing and equipment preparation.  There is also a weekend training day on Sundays.  The League races are on Fridays, and athletes will miss school on some of these days. Some other races, such as the Junior National Qualifiers, are on Saturdays and Sundays. The State Championships are on a Saturday in early March. We encourage athletes to race in the many citizen races around the Tahoe Basin which are held on Sundays and holiday Mondays.

What equipment do I need to join the team?

Basic equipment includes classic and skate skis, ski boots, poles, appropriate clothing for cold weather, and waxing supplies. We provide ski equipment but you will need to provide your own clothing.

Do I need prior experience to join the team?

No prior experience is necessary. We welcome beginners and provide training to help you learn the basics and improve your skills.

What types of training will we do?

Training includes on-snow practice for technique and endurance, strength training, dryland training (running, roller skiing, strength exercises), and technique drills. Conditioning exercises and flexibility training are also common.

How often do we practice and compete?

Generally we practice 4-5 times a week depending on the time of year, with competitions typically held on Fridays. The exact schedule can vary depending on when we have snow and the ski resorts open for the season.

What are the different types of races in Nordic skiing?

There are two main techniques: classic and skate skiing. Races can vary in distance and format, including sprints, middle-distance, long-distance and races combining both techniques.

Do I have to race to be on the team?

Nope.

How do I dress for Nordic skiing practice and races?

Dress in layers to manage body temperature. Wear a moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layers, and a windproof/water-resistant outer layer. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a neck gaiter or balaclava for extra warmth. These clothes should all be synthetic and something that you can freely move in. Anything that is 100% cotton should be avoided.

Can I participate in other sports while on the Nordic skiing team?

Nevada Union encourages multi-sport athletes, but it’s important to manage your time effectively and not over extend yourself. Communicate with your coaches to coordinate schedules and ensure you can meet the commitments of both sports.

Can I still join the team if I have asthma or other medical conditions?

Yes, but inform your Coach about your condition and follow your doctor’s advice. Carry any necessary medications, like inhalers, and take precautions to manage your condition during practice and races.

How can I improve my skiing technique?

Focus on balance, weight transfer, and proper pole usage. Attend all practices, watch instructional videos, seek feedback from Coaches, and practice consistently. Off-season training can also will significantly improve your skills!

What are the benefits of joining the Nordic skiing team?

Besides being fun, Nordic skiing improves cardiovascular fitness, strength, endurance, and overall health. It’s also a great way to enjoy the outdoors, make new friends, and develop teamwork and discipline. Plus, it can enhance your mental toughness and resilience.

Students can earn PE credit for being on the NU Nordic Ski Team. There are also scholarships to different colleges that are available if you do well.

What kind of off-season training should I do to stay in shape for Nordic skiing?

Engage in activities that build cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility, such as running, cycling, swimming, roller skiing, and strength training. Consistent off-season training helps maintain fitness and improve performance.

Is there a concussion protocol for the team?

Absolutely. If a student has been diagnosed with a concussion OR head injury, NJUHSD has put in place a process to ensure that student athletes return to play appropriately. The link provided below contains the exact steps required in order to participate, also known as the Return to Play Protocol. This process is overseen by our Health Office staff. Communication will be sent to parents/guardians and coaches through every step of the process.

What can happen if my student keeps on playing with a concussion or returns too soon?

Continuing to play with the signs and symptoms of a concussion leaves the young athlete especially vulnerable to greater injury. There is an increased risk of significant damage from a concussion for a period of time after that concussion occurs, particularly if the athlete suffers another concussion before completely recovering from the first one. This can lead to prolonged recovery, or even to severe brain swelling (second impact syndrome) with devastating and even fatal consequences. It is well known that adolescent or teenage athletes will often under-report symptoms of injuries, and concussions are no different. As a result, education of administrators, coaches, parents, and students is the key for student-athlete’s safety.

What is Nordic skiing?

Nordic skiing, also known as cross-country skiing, involves skiing across varied terrain using specialized skis that allow the heel to lift off the ski, unlike Alpine skiing.

What are the two main types of Nordic skiing?

The two primary styles are classic (traditional, straight-line technique) and skate skiing (similar to ice skating with skis).

What equipment do I need to participate in Nordic skiing?

You’ll need skis, poles, boots, bindings, and proper winter clothing. Classic and skate skis require different equipment.

Can beginners join the team?

Absolutely! No prior experience is required. We will teach you the basics of both classic and skate skiing.

What is the team practice schedule?

We typically practice after school Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend sessions and races during the season.

What should I wear to practice?

Dress in moisture-wicking layers, avoid cotton, and always bring gloves, a hat, and a warm jacket for cold weather.

How long does the Nordic ski season last?

The season generally runs from early November through February, depending on snow conditions.

How are races structured?

Races vary in distance, typically ranging from 3K to 10K, with both individual and team events in classic and skate disciplines.

How do I sign up for the team?

You can register through the school’s athletics department or contact the coach directly for more information.

Do I need to buy my own skis?

While it’s recommended to have your own skis for a better fit, the team often has rental or loaner equipment available.

Are there tryouts for the team?

Most high school Nordic ski teams are no-cut sports, meaning everyone who wants to join can participate, regardless of skill level.

What types of workouts should I expect?

Practices include endurance training, technique drills, strength workouts, and ski sessions on snow (or dryland training if snow is unavailable).

How do I know which skiing technique is right for me?

You’ll have the opportunity to try both classic and skate skiing early in the season to see which style suits you best.

Are there team competitions?

Yes, the team participates in local and regional races, and there may be opportunities to qualify for state or national competitions.

How can I improve my technique?

Coaches provide personalized feedback during practice, and we may offer video analysis sessions to help fine-tune technique.

What if there is no snow?

In the absence of snow, we do dryland training, which includes running, roller skiing, strength training, and technique drills.

Is roller skiing part of the training?

Yes, roller skiing simulates Nordic skiing and is used during dryland training to improve technique and fitness before the snow falls.

What is the difference between classic and skate skiing?

Classic skiing uses a straight-line motion with skis in parallel tracks, while skate skiing mimics a skating motion with skis in a "V" shape.

Do I need to have experience with roller skiing?

No prior experience with roller skiing is required. We’ll teach you how to use roller skis safely during dryland training.

What should I eat before and after practice?

Before practice, focus on carbs and moderate protein for energy. Afterward, eat a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and healthy fats to aid recovery.

Can I still join if I do other sports?

Yes, many Nordic ski athletes participate in multiple sports. We encourage cross-training and will work with athletes to manage their schedules.

What are wax skis, and why are they important?

Wax skis require regular application of wax for proper glide and grip. It’s important to learn how to wax skis to perform well on different snow conditions.

Will we travel for races?

Yes, the team typically travels to nearby races, and there may be opportunities to compete in regional and state events.

How are race teams selected?

Race teams are often chosen based on performance during practices, but all team members usually get a chance to race during the season.

How can parents support the Nordic ski team?

Parents can help by volunteering at races, providing transportation, or assisting with fundraising and team events.