While skiing today is considered a sport, it began as a necessity for survival in mountainous regions some 8,000 years ago, with possible origins in China, Russia or Scandinavia. Early hunters used long wooden planks, often covered in fur for traction in deep snow, to find food or to travel. The Norse later formalized skiing techniques that lead to the development of modern-day competitive skiing in Norway. By the mid-19th century, it had become a popular recreational activity.

Nowadays, so many don skis and hit the slopes for some fun and exercise. However, others, like Wachusett Regional High School’s ski team, take it to the next level - competitive downhill skiing. The Mountaineer skiers race at Ski Ward in Shrewsbury, a slope that has a long tradition of hosting high school ski races from all over the state. 

According to Wachusett Coach Ken Lubin, skiing is one of the oldest high school sports in the state that was offered through the MIAA. Wachusett takes part in the Central Mass Ski League where they compete against 10 teams, with individual skiers looking to qualify to take part in the State Tournament. 

“Skiing is a totally different beast in regard to other sports,” Lubin said. “It is very simple but also difficult in the same breath. You start at the top and go to the bottom while going around gates.”

As easy as it sounds. it is not that simple once you get on the skis and are heading down a snow-covered hill at speeds of 35 miles an hour or more. Competitive downhill skiers often exceed 80 to 90 mph, while elite speed skiers can surpass 150 mph. 

Wachusett participates in two events - the slalom and giant slalom. The slalom is made up of quick turns through a series of closely spaced, alternating red and blue gates. It is an event that involves fast turns with rapid weight shifts and high precision all while balancing on the fast-moving skis.

Giant slalom is much faster and is executed with wider turns on more open trails. It requires athletes to navigate gates that are spaced 20 to 30 meters apart.

Only two skiers make up the boy’s WRHS ski team, both of whom are relatively new to the sport. The Mountaineers lost four skiers to graduation following last year’s season so needless to say it is a learning process for these athletes. 

The girls team fields more depth and experience. Led by junior Mary Lubin, who has qualified to take part in the State Tournament. At the time of this writing, Lubin is ranked 12th overall for girls. Right behind Lubin is sophomore Lena Brule who is followed by senior captains Olivia Brideau and Ady Atanian and senior Kaeylyn Perry. Brideau, Atanian and Perry are all interchangeable on who is third, fourth, or fifth for the Mountaineers. The two captains are racing in their fourth season and bring leadership to the team. Another skier, sophomore Zoe Kraus, came into the season much stronger than her freshman campaign and has significantly improved her skiing.

Prior to the season getting underway, Coach Lubin knew what he was up against, but it was something that he was optimistic about.

“I knew this year was going to be a challenge,” he said. “Skiing is tough and we don’t have a lot of kids trying out for the sport. It’s more of a crap shoot to who comes out and what you get.”

While the season is in its final weeks, Lubin is planning ahead: his skiers are looking for recruits to take on the challenge of the mountain next winter.