Entering its second winter season, regional non-profit Nordic ski program Momentum Northwest is breathing new life into the sport’s local community.

Momentum Northwest utilizes a group of experienced volunteer coaches led by program director and head coach Sam Naney to foster ethics of individual accountability, goal-setting and stewardship in young athletes ranging in age from six to 18.

“The beauty of Nordic or cross-country skiing lies in how it challenges us as individuals,” says Naney, a former Dartmouth ski team captain and retired professional racer. “Our goal from the beginning has been to instill in our skiers not only a sense of competition with their racing efforts, but also a recognition of the value in taking care of our local outdoor venues and appreciating what’s available to us.”

Skiers in the program regularly combine long trail runs at regional locations such as Tiger Mountain with trash pick-ups, and several times each year they conduct multi-hour trail work sessions alongside groups such as the Washington Trails Association.

In addition to a range of commitment options available for 12 – 18 year olds, Momentum also offers their “Mavericks” program for 6–11 year olds during an eight-week period in the winter.

“The focus for our Mavericks is fun from beginning to end,” Naney says. “Playing games, climbing hills to build jumps, and joining in relay races and obstacle courses all on skis is the best way to get really young kids comfortable on snow and with the sport. They will learn the technique and gain confidence all along the way.”

All of the program’s winter sessions take place at the Cabin Creek Sno-Park trails at exit 63 off I-90, home of the historic Kongsbergers Ski Club.

Momentum Northwest’s registration for winter programs is now open for all ages; to learn more and to follow the progress of their athletes as they compete throughout the region this winter, visit their website at www.momentumnorthwest.org.