Mat Su Junior Nordics (MSJN) provides an opportunity for children to enjoy the Alaskan winter while learning the sport of cross country skiing. Children ages 6 to 14 of all abilities are welcome to join and learn a sport they can pursue for a lifetime. The emphasis is on fun, fitness, and learning proper technique. MSJN skiers receive instruction in both classical and skate techniques from enthusiastic and dedicated coaches. Skiers learn proper care and handling of equipment, trail etiquette, good sportsmanship and how to act responsibly in the outdoors. A typical practice session will include a warm-up period, a lesson in a technique and appropriate length group ski on the trails, ending with a fun activity.
Nordic trails are being developed at John Shaw Elementary School for MSJN (and others). We plan to have practice sessions twice a week after school during the week and one on the weekend, sometimes at a different location. We will be able to use John Shaw Elementary as a place to meet and warm up.
Participation will require that kids join Mat-Su Ski Club. Mat-Su Ski Club has a grant application into the Mat-Su Health Foundation for skiing equipment and trail grooming equipment. This grant is asking for 75 pairs of skis, boots, and poles that can be used for the MSJN and an additional 50 sets for adults. We should know the results of our application sometime in October. In any case, we should be able to get MSJN launched this year even without the grant.
At this point we are trying to organize for the upcoming skiing season. Volunteers (parents and community members) are needed to help with organization (signing up kids, organizing into groups, etc.), coaching, and participation. Coaches include parents who are new to skiing also. We need coaches who can help get skis and boots on during practice sessions as well as coaches who can teach technique.
Please contact Dave Musgrave or call 982-7553 with questions or expressions of interest. If you are interested in coaching, organizing, or otherwise helping with Junior Nordics, please email your contact information include your area of interest and we will contact you soon. Also if you have children interested in joining our Junior Nordic Program, let us know.
Already a Member? Join Junior Nordic's Now!
In addition to joining Junior Nordics, please download a printable registration form found on the check out page. Fill it out and bring it to the first practice.
The Mat-Su Ski Club Junior Nordic's Program has received a $5,000 grant from the Mat-Su Health Foundation for 21 sets of skis, boots and poles! The Mat-Su Ski Club gratefully acknowledges the financial help from the Mat-Su Health Foundation, which will foster healthy winter activities for kids in the Mat-Su Borough.
