Emergency

There are still a few that have not filled out the Emergency Form for Camp.  Please fill this out before we leave on Wednesday.  We want to make sure we have some information in case someone is to need medical attention and we cannot get in touch with  parent, which can happen in iffy cell coverage.

Winter Camp Medical Information Form

Thanks
Denny

Winter Camp

Good Morning,

Here are a couple of items as we get ready for camp in a couple of days.  Please read through all of this!! Also, please remember to look at the schedule (and other camp info) posted earlier to be aware of some of the work we will be doing and time, especially that we want everyone at the school on Wednesday at 6:30 to help get everything packed and to make sure we and they have everything.  We are wanting to leave right at 7:00 and SKI BOOTS NEED TO BE ON THE BUS!

While packing, please be aware of what the weather is going to be like up in Hayward.  It's not going to be super cold, but high temps look to be in the mid teens and lows around 0.  

-Extra hats, buffs/gators and mittens will be important to have with. 

-With that, please remember to bring extra layers to wear as well as to put on after workouts.  It is highly recommended to have an extra layer or two for after the first workout on Wednesday.  We are not wanting anyone to sit around in wet clothes or to go back out for a second workout with wet clothes as well.  This also includes hats, buffs/gators and gloves/mittens.  

-To also help protect from the cold weather, some sort of eye protection should be brought as well, ie, sunglasses and ski glasses.  We will have things of Vaseline to put on the face, but glasses/googles of some sort will be very helpful.  

-Even though it is colder, water is just as important.  A water pack of some sort to have while we ski will be important to stay hydrated!

-Don't forget the warm, dry jacket for after workouts as well!!

One other thing to consider and remember, if you are not feeling well, please stay home.  We know that camp is a big thing and can be a lot of good training as well as fun, but your health, and the health of the rest of the team, are more important.  We have all been around a lot of other people in the past few days, so illnesses can happen, and we don't want to spread them if we can.  Even with the influx in Covid cases in the area, be aware of this and if you feel you need to take a test before camp, please do. We would rather have you and the rest of the team healthy and skiing the rest of the season and not sitting at home while you could be racing!  

-Masks are still required by the School District to be worn on the bus at all times.  

-I checked with the hotel and they currently do not have a mask or any other mandates, but if someone feels more comfortable wearing a mask they can.

Lastly, for those that are bringing food or other items that will be sent up to camp, please make sure that you are marking what is in the food for those on the team that have allergies; mark all items you want returned with your name; and make sure they are travel ready.  The parents that go up and help set things up at the hotel put a lot of time into it, more than expected, so if there is any way you can help to make it easier for them, that is always appreciated.

Camp is always a fun time and a lot of work is put into making it work, but please note that with our current situation in the world, more has to be done to make sure everyone is feeling comfortable.  There will always be questions that everyone has, but I will keep doing what I can to make sure everything is taken care of and everyone is comfortable.  If we have to make sacrifices or changes to keep everyone safe, last minute or ahead of time, we will. Anything you can do before hand to be prepared for these changes and things that may not be what you are used to is much appreciated.

Thanks,
Denny

 

Winter Camp and Break

Below is the Tentative Schedule for Winter Camp.  This could easily change depending on weather and snow conditions.  Also, If anyone is looking for ideas to do for workouts over the next week, please look here: Winter Break Workout Ideas

Tentative Winter Camp Schedule

 

Wednesday, Dec. 29          6:30am           Get skis from ski room.  Load bus &

Trailer, check for boots

                                            7:00am           Leave for Hayward

                                            10:00am         Arrive at “00” or Birkie Trailhead

                                             10:15pm        Classic: Warm up Drills then Classic

12:30              Lunch            

                                            2:00                Put on Skate Ski’s, Drills, ski until 5:00

                                            6:00pm           Dinner (Provided by Parents: soup,

                                                                        Sandwiches)

                                            10:00pm        Lights Out

 

Thursday, Dec. 30                7:00am           Wake Up and eat

                                             8:00am           Head out to Birke Trailhead

(Skate Skiing, Varsity, some JV Start at Cable, head to Hayward; First Years, some JV, start at ‘00’ and head to Hayward)

                                              12:00pm        Lunch Break at Fish Hatchery Cabin

                                              1:00pm           First Years/JV Go Classic Skiing
                                              2:00pm           Varsity/JV Go Classic Skiing

                                              4:00pm           Ski’s Off

                                              6:00pm           Dinner (Provided by Booster Club)

                                              10:00pm        Lights Out

 

Friday, Dec. 31                   7:00am           Wake up and eat, then pack things up

                                                                        And bring to trailer

                                              8:30am           Head to Timberland Trails

                                                                        Classic Drills then hill repeats

                                              12:30am         Meet for lunch

                                              1:30pm           Meet on trails

                                                                        Skate (Will decide depending on how

                                                                        Everyone feels and has been

                                                                        working!)

                                                                        Then on your own

                                              3:30pm           Ski’s off, get ready for trip home

                                              4:00pm           Head home

                                              5:45pm           Call ahead from Forest Lake for rides

                                              6:00pm           Arrive at CRHS, unload bus & trailer

Wednesday Results

Overall Meet and our Individual results from yesterday's meet at Hyland are posted on the right side of the blog.

The Boys team finished in 2nd out of 6 teams while the Girls took 4th.  2 Boys finished in the top 8 with a total 4 in the top 16, while on the Girls side they placed 6 in the top 30.

It was a fun day to watch some ski races though.  Hard to believe that the temps were almost the same as they were a week ago, but it was so much nicer not having the big winds!  A more challenging course and doing classical skiing in which we haven't had as much time to work on so far this season with the lack of snow.  But the skiers have been working hard, trying to learn so they can improve, and adjust to the ever changing conditions and weather that we have had so far.  It is something that we need to get accepting it for what it is and do the best we can when we get the good chances.  With this group, we as coaches are in a position where we see potential but also desire, and this is making it so much easier to deal with the adverse conditions.  

The hope is that the snow conditions in Hayward for camp, which are currently pretty good, hold out over the next couple of days of weather and we can go up and really make the improvements that we would like to do for the skiers, because they have earned it and deserve it as well.

Thanks to all who came out and watched, including some alumni!!

Have a Great Holiday Season!!
Denny

Apparel Order Form

If anyone is looking to purchase the apparel and have not seen the order form yet (given to the skiers last week), here is a google form that you can fill out.  Any questions, please let Ava know,
Apparel Order Form

Thanks,
Denny

Week Ahead

Here are the basics for the week ahead, Dec. 20:

Monday and Tuesday we will be classic skiing.  We are going to try and get out to Greenhaven but if we cannot then we will be using the CR fields or Riverview Park.  We will also lift weights on Monday after school.

Wednesday is a classic race at Hyland Park in Bloomington (west end of the park, not by the downhill area). Bus will leave at 2:00, Boys race at 3:30, Girls 4:00.  

There will not be any organized practices the rest of the week.  I will give the skiers some workout ideas for the time between Wednesday and camp.

Thanks!!
Denny

Thursday Overall Results

Overall Results from Thursdays meet are now posted on the right side of the blog.  Both the Boys and Girls teams finished in 4th out of the 6 teams that were there in some pretty tight team races. 

There was much improvement shown from both teams, and some of the technique work we have been putting in is starting to show.  It is still very early in the season and we are hoping to be fine tuning more over the next few days of practice so we are ready for when we head to our Winter Camp, where we will be able to get in a lot of time on skis!!  But, for the amount of time we have had on snow and the work we have been able to get in, we are in a good spot and there is definitely signs of growth and potential.  Plus, with the wind making things more challenging, not only physically, but mentally, it was a good day of racing.

The First Years also had a positive first race, whether it was one lap or two.  There is a lot of work for them to do, and being able to learn all of the technique work as well as trying to be competitive is not an easy task, and they are doing what they can to make sure they reach their goals.

Next race will be next Wednesday.  Once all of the details are sent to us I will get it out.  Also, reminder that Saturday is cancelled.

Thanks for all of those that braved the weather last night to watch and support the skiers!!
Denny

Thursday Results

Our Individual Results are now posted on the right side of the blog.  Once the Overall Results are completed and we get a copy I will post those as well.  I will also put out a more in-depth analysis when those are posted. 

One thing of note, the meet on Saturday at Winona has been cancelled due to the snow conditions after last nights storms (plus they had some trees go down).  We are not going to have a scheduled practice for Saturday, but one option that I am going to suggest to those that would like to get a good workout in is the Hoigaard's/Breadsmith Relay's at Elm Creek on Saturday.  You can find details about this race here: https://www.skinnyski.com/racing/PR/hoigaardsrelays20211215.pdf

Thanks!
Denny

Winter Camp

Below is information on camp (a detailed schedule will come out about a week before we go) as well as a form that I want everyone that is going to fill out (including chaperone's).  Please make sure that you are getting payments in.  If there are issues with payment, please let me know. Checks can be made out to CRNSBC or you can use Venmo: CR Nordic @CRXCski, and please put down that it is for Winter Camp as well as the name(s) it is for so we can keep accurate track of who has paid. 

Winter Camp Medical Information Form

If there are any questions, please let me know,
Thanks,

Denny

2021 Nordic Skiing Winter Camp

 

Each year we offer skiers a chance to improve their skiing and get some time in on some great snow trails up north.  It also gives the team a chance to relax, have fun, and get better acquainted.

 

We will leave for Winter Camp at 7:00am on Wednesday, December 29 and will return about 6:00pm on Friday, December 31.  An approximate itinerary will be posted the week before we go (some of the locations and workouts may change depending on the snow conditions).  We will be spending most of our evening time at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites in Hayward, WI, where cell range is sometimes limited, so if you need to get a hold of your child, your best option could be to call the Hotel, 715-634-0700. 

 

Students should bring their own healthy lunches and snacks in a cooler that stays in the equipment trailer on the trip up.  It is best to share coolers when possible. Minimal spending money is needed unless they want to buy things.  There is a continental breakfast available by the hotel, with hot and cold options, but bringing their own is still something to consider, especially with current times.

 

Students are expected to pack the following items: Plenty of warm clothing (layers are best) and personal items for three days (don’t forget that toothbrush & deodorant, please!!), a warm winter coat, winter boots (to be worn on your feet on the bus), PJ’s, water bottle/sports drink, Skis, Kick Wax, Poles, and Ski Boots, cooler.  Remember that most everything will go into the equipment trailer.  You may want to take homework, a camera, a healthy snack for the bus ride, headphones.  Consider marking the items you want back!  Be sure to bring a positive attitude, and your CRHS pride and manners. (Videos for the evenings should be pre-approved by the coaches.)

 

On the return trip we will stop at Forest Lake for a quick rest stop and phone calls home to parents.  Please be sure to meet your students at CRHS about 20 minutes after they call!  (We’re all tired and anxious to get home by then.)  It helps if you park in the stalls rather than along the curb while you wait.  All students are expected to stay and help until ALL equipment is unloaded and properly put away.  We’re a team and teammates stick together (Yes, parents can helps!!)

ABC Relay Voluteers

 Parents, you are SO needed! Can you tell that this sport can't be done well without you?

This is the sign-up for the ABC Relays on January 15th, 2022 for the meet that we host. The location is at the Vasaloppet Center in Mora. See the sign-up for more details!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040d48aeaa2da31-abcrelays

Week Ahead

Our individual results from Friday are posted.  I was waiting for the overall results before I mentioned anything, but we are still waiting on one team to submit their times. If overall results are completed I will post those as well.  But, there was some solid skiing from those that raced and many things that we can and will need to work on, which is a positive because if shows there is a lot of room for improvement.  Plus, knowing how hard the skiers have been working, it should be fun to see where they end up!!

Below are a couple of things for this week, Dec 13:

Monday we got scheduled to have practice at Elm Creek and we are going to use it.  Our practice time is at 4:30 to 6:00 with our bus leaving at 4:00.  We will be on skate skis

Tuesday we are going to be going to Greenhaven Golf Course in Anoka at regular time, skiing classic.

Wednesday we are hoping to go to Greenhaven again, but we will see what happens with snow conditions.  We would hope to be skating again.

Thursday we have a race at Elm Creek, 3:30.  I have not heard of the details yet, but once I do I will let you know.

Friday we will see what we can do depending the snow conditions.

Saturday is still a possibility, but waiting to hear from Winona to see if they feel it will be feasable.

If you haven't, please be getting Winter Camp payments in.  We would like to have all payments in this week.  Also look for a form to fill out on the blog on Monday for those going to camp.  This will be similar to an emergency card for athletics, but will have a few more details that hospitals have asked we have on.

Thanks!
Denny

Friday Update

Here is the final plan for Friday's meet at Elm Creek:  

-We will be leaving at 2:00 (Middle School out at 1:30, HS at 1:40) and then we will be skate skiing at Elm Creek.  

-We will be on our skis from the time we get there around 2:30 until we leave.

-For those that are ready and want to, at 4:00, the Boy's will be doing their time trial of 4K; at 4:30 the Girl's will be doing their time trial of 4K.  For any first year that would like to do a time trial, we will time them separately before the 4:00 start times.  

-We will leave it up to the skiers themselves if they wear their uniforms and bibs.  I will post the bib list later today so everyone knows who is what number.  If you are coming to spectate, please note that parking is tight and you may need to park a mile away, so please give yourself plenty of time. 

-I will put together our times/results, but I am not sure if there will be overall results, it will depend on what the other coaches would like to do.  

-We will ski until 5:00 though and then head home.

If there are any questions, please let me know,
Thanks

Denny

Friday

We were given notification at the end of the school day that we are able to have our meet on Friday at Elm Creek!!  We are still working on the details, but chances are, as discussed between the coaches of the other teams competing, we are probably going to spend more time practicing and not have an actual race, but a time trial for those that feel comfortable doing more of a race type situation near the end of our time, so probably boys at 4:00 and girls at 4:30, and 4K long.  Most of our 1st years will probably not race since that will be their first time at Elm Creek and on groomed trails.  We may also just have them do a full lap at some point and time them.  Most likely there will be no overall meet results, but we will time any of our skiers that do a time trial.

But, once all final details are in (hopefully by Thursday morning) I will post them.

Thanks

Denny

Few Items of Importance

Below are a couple of different things of importance.  Please make sure you read through it all.
Thanks

Denny

Here are links to the information for this year's Heggie's Pizza Fundraiser.  There are some new flavors this year.  Orders are due to Kami Thoen no later than January 5.  Order pick up will be roughly 2 weeks later.  Heggies Description Sheet    Heggies Order Form

For those that would like to send any items to camp to help with meals and such, please go to this link to see what is needed and to sign up: Winter Camp Item Sign Up

Lastly, here is some information about this years Nordic Opener at Elm Creek on Saturday, Dec 11:

It’s once again time for the Minnesota Nordic Ski Opener!  As a HS Nordic Ski Coach you, your students, families and school mascot are invited to participate in the 2021 Nordic Ski Opener Saturday, December 11, 2021, from 9am – 4pm at Elm Creek Park Reserve - see https://www.threeriversparks.org/page/minnesota-nordic-ski-opener

The goal of this event is to develop lifelong skiers and promote cross country skiing at all levels – especially HS Skiing! Part of being a lifelong skier is having a connection to the cross-county ski community. The Minnesota Nordic Ski Opener is a great way to connect your skiers with the ski community! Your Mascot is also invited to join us for the Mascot ski with Goldy the Gopher at 11:30am.

New this Year – Skaði’s Chase 4K race

Your skiers can welcome winter with Skaði (Ska-Dee), Norse goddess of skiers, in Skaði’s Chase. There are middle school and high school divisions in the 4K race. Entry is only $15 for High School and middle school students when they pre-register. All racers will receive a Minnesota Nordic Ski Opener buff. Register on the Minnesota Nordic Ski Opener webpage - https://www.threeriversparks.org/page/minnesota-nordic-ski-opener

The Minnesota Nordic Ski Opener is also a great way for your skiers to gain service hours by volunteering! We are looking for volunteers to help with rentals, as ski buddies and much more. If your team can volunteer contact Becca Conser at volunteer@threeriversparks.org or 763-559-6706

The Nordic Ski Opener is free to the public. It is a great event for the entire family with free skiing, free mini lessons, free ski rentals and demos, and many fun activities for the entire family!  We look forward to seeing you at Elm Creek Park Reserve on December 11, 2021, in Maple Grove, MN.

Week of Dec. 6

Well, we got some snow! But, this actually makes things a little more complicated for setting up practices since it wasn't much and there is not enough for any place to groom.  Elm Creek is still not ready for team practices, so we are not going to be able to get in there for anything in the foreseeable future, which also includes if we have a race on Friday or not.

So, with that, we are really going to look at everything one day at a time and see what the weather does and what we can do.  We want everyone to always be ready for inside and outside, and to be on foot or skis.

Monday, we want everyone to be at the school by 2:30 to do strength training.  After that, we will sign out uniforms, practice inside (a feels like of -6 at 3:00) and then we will sign out equipment at the end.

We might be able to get out onto the fields (the Pit) on Tuesday and/or Wednesday, but we will wait to see what happens as we get closer.

Once I hear about whether or not we can race on Friday I will put out details on that.

Thanks

Denny

Friday Practice

We are going to be at school today since it snowed enough to make the pavement wet. We will be inside. Still meeting at 9

Schedule Change

We were just notified that our meet for next week is still a go.  However, we have been changed to Elm Creek and to Friday, Dec. 10.  Once we figure out all of the details, I will let you know.  I made the change on the schedule on the right side of the blog.
More info to come,
Thanks

Denny