Minnesota winters can be long, especially in the northern part of the state, and gray days with the sun setting early can get depressing. Spending time outdoors with others from the community can help the winter not seem so long.
The North Shore Nordic ski program, a branch of the Minnesota Youth Ski League (MyXC), will be meeting for eight sessions on Sunday afternoons in January and February, beginning January 8. North Shore Nordic meets at the Two Harbors High School football and soccer fields.
While the typical age for participants is youth ages 4 to 14, program director Megan Brown-Holmes says that “ we strongly encourage all family members to get involved! It is great to have parents out on their skis as well joining in the fun!” Classic Nordic skiing is taught for levels one through four, and skate skiing for level five.
Volunteers are always welcome. “The more volunteers that we have the more skiers we are able to bring into the program,” Brown-Holmes says. Ski experience isn’t necessary to volunteer, and one simple, non-skiing way to volunteer is handing out hot cocoa and cookies after each session.
Individuals that can classic or skate ski are welcome to volunteer to teach young skiers. “We follow the Minnesota Youth Ski League curriculum which has been used for years and is a well laid out program, easy for anyone to follow,” Brown-Holmes commented. The head coach and assistant coaching positions are also open to anyone interested. “We can even use sweepers who simply help keep the group together and follow up towards the end of the pack,” Brown-Holmes added. Those interested in volunteering can reach out to Megan Brown-Holmes at northshore@myxc.org or call or text (218) 780-6158.
Approximately 55 to 60 skiers are expected to participate in the 2025 season, the highest number yet in the four years North Shore Nordic has been in existence. “It is a great opportunity to simply get outside and enjoy the snow,” Brown-Holmes said. “It is a lifelong skill for our youth to learn and it is a fun family event! We have so much fun putting this on! We have classic ski rental equipment for anyone who would like to try it out! We always end with a fun all levels game and then hot cocoa and cookies!”
