Team selection

Team selection is a process that can cause a great deal of anxiety. Unfortunately, although we would like to support all serious competitors, limited resources make it necessary to limit the team size. The target team size for the fall roster is 10 men and 10 women. In the past, however, this has ranged between 8 and 12. Selection for the team depends on a number of factors:

(1) Past Performance: Nordic skiing is a performance based sport. Other factors will be considered, but past race results are the primary determinant for team selection.

(2) Fall Term Testing: Performance in fall term testing—running and rollerskiing time trials, strength testing—will be considered. In addition, benchmark tests (uphill run, 3000m, and rollerskiing tests) are used with minimum performance standards set to remain on the roster for the fall. The team information website contains archives of testing results.

(3) Training Diligence: Attending practice, keeping a training log, and other activities that demonstrate seriousness of purpose can factor into team selection.

(4) Coach’s Discretion: The coach has the right to make subjective decisions about team selection.

TRAINING CAMPS

We typically hold two main training camps during academic breaks in November and January. There is often an out of pocket cost for attending these camps for those that choose to. Attending camps that cost extra is not mandatory to be a member of the team. Training camps are also not always open to every team member on the roster. Every effort is made to keep costs to a minimum while maintaining a quality experience for all involved. Athletes should budget about $400 for Thanksgiving camp and about $200-300 if they are selected and choose to do the January camp or US Nationals Trip which is partially funded.

EQUIPMENT

Nordic skiing is an equipment intensive sport. In addition to certain obvious necessities (i.e. skis), as SLU ski team members you will need to invest in a variety of additional items. Although not strict requirements (it may be possible to get by in the short term), these additional items will benefit you and your training.

Required

The following equipment will be necessary to participate in SLU Nordic practices. This list has been divided into “dryland,” “on-snow,” and “miscellaneous” portions.