03/18/2026
🎙️ Coach’s Take: Mark
Associate Director | U14 Head Coach
⛷️ Why coach ski racing?
For me it always comes back to one simple thing — I loved ski racing myself, and I want to pass that passion along to the next generation. When I reflect on my own racing days, I realize how much those years shaped who I am today. The lessons go far beyond the hill. I see that same transformation starting in the U14 athletes every day.
❄️ What keeps you coming back to coach each season?
Watching young racers discover the sport. The first time they feel a great turn, figure something out technically, or push themselves outside their comfort zone — that’s when the spark happens. Seeing athletes smile, improve, and become passionate about ski racing is incredibly rewarding.
💪 What values matter most in developing young racers?
The values of Buck Hill Ski Racing Team resonate deeply with me: Effort, Grit, and Courage. Every day with the U14s I see those values in action. Effort when they keep working through a drill. Grit when training is tough. Courage when they challenge themselves on the hill. Those lessons stick with them far beyond ski racing.
👨👩👧 Why are parents such an important part of the team?
This year I’ve spent a lot of time helping with parent education, because the strength of this program comes from the whole community. Coaches, hill management, athletes, and parents all care deeply about the team. When everyone understands the process and supports the athletes, it creates a powerful environment for growth.
🏔️ What’s the biggest lesson ski racing teaches?
There are no shortcuts to the podium! But the road there is full of rewards — friendships, resilience, confidence, and a lifelong love of the sport! And for many athletes, those lessons will shape who they become long after their racing days are over.
A huge thank you to Coach Mark for the passion, wisdom, and care he brings to our athletes and families. We’re grateful for the way he pours into this team!
