MIDDLEBURY — Local Nordic skiing coach Cam MacKugler has been named the head coach of the team that will represent New England at the Junior National Championships at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe from March 1-8. MacKugler is executive director and head coach of the Frost Mountain Nordic Club
The March races, sanctioned by the United States Ski Association (USSA), will be held on the Lodge’s 100-kilometer network of cross-country ski trails.
MacKugler will lead a New England team that has captured four of the five past national titles — known as the Alaska Cup — and has often featured Vermont and local athletes.
“I am very excited to be leading the charge for the New England Team and am optimistic that New England can reclaim the coveted Alaska Cup,” MacKugler said. “It is a big honor to play this large of a role on the national stage, and our local Addison County athletes have been training hard and will hopefully qualify and join Team New England on our crusade for the cup.”
The March event is expected to draw 400 of the fastest junior racers in 10 divisions, MacKugler said.
According to the USSA, Junior Nationals are showcase events for younger athletes. They are often the launching pad for future U.S. Ski Team stars and can lead to advancement to higher-level competitions. Organized by local USSA clubs, the USSA Junior Nationals, now in their 35th season, are recognized by the USSA and the U.S. Olympic Committee.
Frost Mountain Nordic is a nonprofit organization based in Middlebury that provides skiing opportunities and training programs for all ages and abilities. Typically, Middlebury College’s Rikert Ski Touring Center serves as its training and competitive base.
Frost Mountain’s winter programming starts on Dec. 3. MacKugler said those who would like to learn more may visit www.frostmountainnordic.org.