General Information

JOIN THE NORDIC SKI TEAM

Below are links to important resources for families and students who are interested in the SWHS Nordic Ski Team.

• Registration Checklist - Important links to online forms and additional information needed to complete registration
• Athlete and Family Information Night Presentation - Overview of Nordic Ski at SWHS, schedule, and expectations
• Athlete Training Program Packet - Coach Dundon's in-depth look at the season ahead (Pick up a paper copy from Coach Dundon!)

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 health, encourage personal growth, and develop lifelong skills. And 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, gain racing experience, and strive to reach their personal best.

2022-23 SEASON COACHES & CAPTAINS

Head Coach: James Dundon

Team Captains: Wes Sumner, Parker Stevens, Jack Bode, Michelle Nguyen, Azaya Basford, Maddie Tatum

Assistant Coaches: Pete Moran, Amy Bode, Pete Dahlquist, Sarah Makosky, Edith McDonald, and Eric Sumner.

PRACTICES

Below is a bit about the types of practices and training athletes will participate in as part of the Nordic team. In addition to what is described below, there may be captains’ practices and other opportunities to gather as a team and train together.

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 important 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 in 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 three times a week.

RACES

In general, races are held each week on Tuesday beginning around mid-December and going to mid-February. Conference championships will be in February. Races are held at Theodore Wirth Park in most cases. All race information will be posted to the calendar in TeamSnap.

ATTENDANCE

It takes time and consistency to learn the techniques of Nordic skiing. It is important that everyone be at every practice. Missing practices hurts your progress and hurts the team. Your teammates and coaches expect your best effort and will hold you accountable.

1. Skiers are expected to attend all practices.
2. If you need to miss a practice, you must let your coach know one day in advance. Please talk with the coach in person or send an email or message via TeamSnap. 
3. Practices are held in all types of weather. Only extreme cold would cause a cancellation.
4. Practice times, locations and race schedules are posted in TeamSnap. Plan accordingly. Don’t schedule appointments or activities that conflict with practices or races. 
5. Emergencies, illnesses and injuries do happen and we will work with you if something comes up.

COMMUNICATION

The coaches and athletes will use an app called TeamSnap for communication. It can be used on mobile devices and desktops. Guardians/parents of an athlete can be added to TeamSnap so they can access practice, race, and event information. Details about and directions for TeamSnap will be provided at the beginning of the season.

For Booster Club information, fundraising events, or other news, we will send communications through email or other means.

TRANSPORTATION

SWHS does not offer busing to practices or races for Nordic. We strongly encourage parents and athletes to coordinate and carpool as much as possible. There are several teams in the area using Theodore Wirth and Hyland Hills, so parking lots get full.

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: james.dundon@mpls.k12.mn.us