By: Layla Wofsy ’19
After a coming first overall in the CISL league and placing second in states behind Fairfield the Staples girls’ ski team is ready to get back on the slopes and plans on capturing first in states and in the league this season. Captain Sofia Gerrard ’18 hopes that the team will perform at the same level as the past two years.
Last season, Staples lost in states by 0.7 seconds, finishing in second place behind Fairfield, a team comprised of both Ludlowe and Warde. “We have been really close each year but have not been able to surpass Fairfield at states,” captain Zoe Hulina ’18 said.
The season unofficially kicked off on Nov. 6 with captains practices, in which the skiers began doing exercises to get them back into the swing of things before putting on their skis. “The team focuses more on physical body strength than cardiovascular strength,” Hulina said.
In addition to captains practices, the team has dryland practices throughout the season. According to skier Maddie Steele ’19, “Dryland is a lot of leg work and other exercises, as well as some classroom sessions to teach people who might not have raced before about technique.”
Despite improving their physical strength, the seniors hope to create a more connected team by leading more team-bonding activities throughout the winter season. “This year our captains are focusing more on team bonding, so we are hoping to have a team sleepover with the girls to get to know each other more,” Steele said.
Although the team lost two varsity seniors, they hope to even out the team with the new incoming freshmen. According to both Gerrard and Huleia, Isabella Gerrard ’21 will be a great addition to this year’s team.
“I am looking forward to getting back on skis and being able to share the experience with other people in all grades,” Isabella Gerrard said. In addition, Isabella Gerrard is excited for the team trip to Okemo ski mountain because it is where she first learned how to ski and she knows that it will help with team bonding.
Photo Contributed By Samantha Pacilio ’19