"Although it's a rebuilding year, we have a talented group and expect to make a strong showing this season," said Captain Dave Reckess '02.
Coach John Risley has modeled the dry land training after the U.S. Ski Team, which focuses on building aerobic capacity, strength endurance and sport-specific exercise. "I think that this has been our best year for dry-lands," said Risley.
"I think that if we stay healthy," he added, "the men have their best shot at qualifying for the regional championships that they have had in a few years." To qualify for regional championships, the team must place as one of the top four teams in the division.
Amherst competes in the Thompson Division of the Eastern Collegiate Ski Conference that includes teams such as Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Green Mountain College, Tufts University and Boston University. "The men compete in one of the most competitive divisions in the whole country," said Risley. "Every team in the division is skilled."
The force of returning skiers is partially offset by the fact that the squad has lost a number of graduating seniors, according to Risley. However, Risley added that Seth Fitzsimmons '02, the number one skier on the team last year, "placed consistently as a top 15 finisher." Fitzsimmons should continue to be one of the key contributors to the team.
Much of Risley's confidence for the upcoming season lies in the anticipated talent and dedication of the five first-year skiers. Freshmen Jon Edwards, Ezra Gordon, A.J Korytoski, David Maxted and Doug Orbaker should all contribute to the team in their rookie seasons. "We have a couple of first-years who should make an immediate contribution to the team," said Risley.
The ski team will spend Interterm race training and begin racing in mid-January. "We think it's going to be a really good year for snow," said Risley. "Everyone is looking forward to the season."