When North Shore Storm sophomore Gunny Skadberg returned to the State Nordic Ski Meet this season, he did so with clear progress to show for it.
After finishing 62nd as a freshman last winter, Skadberg climbed twelve places this year, taking 50th in the pursuit with a combined time of 30:18.0. The pursuit format, which combines a 5k skate and a 5k classic, is one of the most demanding events of the year.
His appearance at State marks another step in a progression that began last winter. As a freshman, Skadberg became the first Storm skier in eight years to qualify for State and one of only three ninth graders in Section 7 to make it. This year he returned stronger, more experienced, and noticeably quicker, cutting nearly three minutes from his pursuit time.
“Gunny brings hard work, dedication, and a genuine love for Nordic skiing every single day,” Head Coach Baylee Johnson said.
The improvement has been building for a while. Last winter Skadberg won the Prince Haakon 15K in Hayward, a race tied to the American Birkebeiner and known for drawing tough regional competition. This season added another milestone. Skadberg qualified for the Junior National Team for the U16 Midwest Division and will compete at the national level later this winter.
“Qualifying for Junior Nationals is an amazing accomplishment,” Johnson said.
Johnson noted that the group trains closely together and creates an environment where athletes push each other forward. That support carried into the postseason.
“Even though only one skier made it to State this year, it truly feels like the whole team did,” the coach said. “His drive is supported by a whole team that pushes each other, shows up for each other, and creates the environment that helps skiers thrive.”
Two straight State appearances and a spot at Junior Nationals now sit on Skadberg’s resume, a reflection of steady individual progress and a Storm program building momentum.
