Cub Bagging Volunteer List - Updated 2/1

Week of 1/24/12

Monday: Practice @ Theodore Wirth - Leave Andover at 2:45 and then to Oak View
Tuesday: Meet @ Theodore Wirth - Skate race, first leg of pursuit
Wednesday: Wax and evening ski
Thursday: Meet @ Elm Creek - Classic pursuit
Friday: TBD

Tuesday Tentative Schedule
3:30 Girls Varsity
4:00 Boys Varsity (30 minutes on the clock)
4:20 Girls JV (50 minutes on the clock)
4:30 Boys JV (60 minutes on the clock)

Picture Links!

https://picasaweb.google.com/106539171102214772076/20111217?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCP-itYz_-7-c9QE&feat=directlink

https://picasaweb.google.com/106539171102214772076/20111220?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCJmYvtDU94jZBg&feat=directlink

https://picasaweb.google.com/106539171102214772076/20111228?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCOu8wMT-1tuAgAE&feat=directlink

https://picasaweb.google.com/106539171102214772076/20120114?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCJrZrfnx_vqFuwE&feat=directlink

Booster Meeting Wed 1/11, 7PM

Reminder, the next Nordic Booster meeting is this Wed Jan 11th, 7PM in room A107.

Schedule: Week of 1/9

Monday: Bus for high school skiers only leaves at 2:30 for Elm Creek, middle school skiers meet at Andover HS for practice.

Tuesday: Meet at Elm Creek bus leaves the high school at 1:50 and the middle school at 2:00

Boys (top 13) 7.5k skiers – 3:30 top

Girls (top 13) 7.5k skiers – 25 minutes on the clock

Boys JV skiers (can go 7.5k or 5k) – 55 minutes on the clock

Girls JV skiers (can go 7.5k or 5k) – 60 minutes on the clock

Wednesday: TBD

Thursday: TBD

Friday: Elm Creek practice leaving Andover at 2:45 and Oak View at 3:10

Saturday: Meet at Theodore Wirth bus leaving Andover at 7:00 AM

Boys 4x3 km Relay 10:00 AM

Girls 4x3 km Relay 11:30 AM

Awards 1:30 PM

Practices Thur - Sat

Thursday 1/5 - Leave from Andover at 2:45 then to Oak View and Elm Creek
Friday 1/6 - Leave from Andover a 2:30 and then to Elm Creek
Saturday 1/7 - Car pool from Andover at 8:30 AM

Note: The team was assigned a 2:30 - 4:00 practice time on Friday at Elm Creek. Policy prevents us from taking students out of school for a practice which means there will not be a practice for middle school skiers on Friday.

Meet on 1/10/12
The next meet will be a 7.5 km classic race. Start times will be similar to those from the 1/3/12 meet. More info to follow.

Meet 1/3/2012

The meet will be held at Elm Creek on Tuesday as scheduled. The distance has not been determined at this time, either 7.5 km or 5 km, however it will be a classic meet. Due to the abrasiveness of the snow a binder will be needed for a longer race, so if possible heat in a binder on Monday. The team will be dismissed at 1:30 withe the bus leaving Andover at 1:45 and then picking up the middle school skiers. Middle school skiers should be dismissed at 1:45.

          Race Times
3:30 - Boys top 12 - 13 skiers
3:55 - Girls top 12 - 13 skiers 
4:20 - Boys JV and 2 minutes after last boy Girls JV

Post Winter Trip

For those of you that went on the winter trip, congratulations there was a great deal of quality snow time. For the upcoming days look to skate on Saturday and Sunday, hopefully for 2 hours with some good pickups. Monday we will meet at the school at 8:30 to car pool out to Elm Creek. The plan will be to do some classic skiing.

Note: There was enough snow in Wisconsin to open up portions of the Birkie trail, skate only. Think about going out there if the thought of another set of Elm Creek laps drives you crazy. Another option would be to head down to Theodore Wirth for some time on the section race course.

Schedule For Week of 12/19

Monday - Trollhaugen: Bus picks up at the high school first at 2:45 and then the middle school. Leave Trollhaugen at 6:30.
Tuesday - Elm Creek Meet: High School dismiss at 1:45 leave before 2:00. Middle School dismisses at 1:55. The race is a skate race and will be two laps of the Elm Creek artificial snow course. Start time is 3:30.
Wednesday - Andover: The team will be at the high school for practice, middle school skiers will need to carpool over.
Thursday - Andover: We will be training at the high school.
Friday - Captains practice.

Volunteer Opportunities - Tour de Twin Cities Battle Creek Challenge

On Sat Jan 28 and Sun Jan 29, 2012, the Tour de Twin Cities Battle Creek Challenge SuperTour/College/JQC/Citizen/Youth races will need volunteers to help with races. Saturday is mass start classic and Sunday is pursuit freestyle.

No online signup is available for volunteers. Please send your name and email address to Sue Duijndam at c.duijndam@comcast.net for race updates and further information on volunteer opportunities.

Holiday Relays Schedule

The bus leaves at 6:45 AM for Trollhaugen. The schedule for the day is listed below.

SCHEDULE
    8:00 AM    Packet Pick-up
    9:30        Girls Classic 4x3km
    10:45        Boys Classic 4x3km
    12:00 Noon    Girls Skate 4x3km
    1:00 PM    Boys Skate 4x3km
    2:15        Awards

Wednesday 12/14

The bus will leave for Trollhaugen at 4:30 from Andover High School. Middle school athletes will need to be at the high school for the trip. We will be skate skiing.

Booster Meeting Wed Dec 14, 7PM

A reminder - The next Nordic Booster meeting will be this Wed evening at 7PM at AHS, room A107.

Week of 12/12

Practices will begin at 3:00 PM this week. The change in start time will remain in effect until we move to a busing schedule.

Practice Schedule 12/5

Monday - If you head out for a morning ski at Elm Creek go with classic. For the afternoon practice bring a shovel as well as running and skiing gear.
Tuesday - Be prepared to run and ski.
Wednesday - Currently the meet is off, we will be on site.
Thursday - On site.
Friday - On site.

2011-12 Nordic Schedule

Here is the second version of the schedule. The first meet has been moved to the 7th of December rather than the 5th. Included on this version is the Fundraiser activities on November 17th and February 4th. The Section 5 meet has been moved to Wirth Park and will be held on Feb. 8th.

Start of the Season

It's time to get organized for the 2011-12 Nordic Ski season. Forms need to be turned in and equipment needs to be looked over. Do your boots still fit? The ski swap at Pioneer is coming up and our first practice will be November 14th at 2:45. Meet by the ski room, which is next to the weight room. Drew will be taking over as the assistant coach this season as Ben will be cutting back on his involvement due to his work obligations.

November 14th Schedule
Monday - first practice @ 2:45 (same time all season)
Tuesday - Parent meeting 6:30 Media Center
Thursday - Andover Night @ Pioneer Midwest 6:00

Booster Meeting Nov 2 at 7PM, AHS

The Nordic boosters will meet this Wednesday Nov 2 at 7PM at the HS, Room B109.

Andover Night @ Pioneer Midwest

Pioneer Midwest will be hosting Andover Thursday, November 17th. This is a good time to pick up the essentials, such as ski boots and kick wax. Things get started after practice at about 6:00 PM. There will be more information at the parents meeting Tuesday, November 15th.

Ski Swap - Pioneer Midwest

The ski season is rapidly approaching and with it the annual ski swap at Pioneer Midwest. If you are looking for a good deal on some skis or boots this could be a good opportunity. If you are interested in selling items the drop off is the two days prior to the swap.

Information

Saturday, November 12th
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
415 County Road 81
Osseo, MN
763-420-8981

Roller Ski Pick-up

If you are planning to use the booster club roller skis for summer training, here are the specifics.

• Pick them up Sunday, June 12th after 7:00 PM.
• The roller skis will be at Coach Clark's house.
• The rental fee is $50 and the check should be made out to Andover Nordic Skiing.

Photos To Share

Here are a couple of links to photos from meets.

Pastry Relays - Thanks Charlie!
http://rebelsnordic.smugmug.com/CPHSNordic20010-2011Season/Pastry-Relays/15801080_4krJC#1184717539_dbExQ

Section Meet - Thanks Jeff and Others
https://picasaweb.google.com/AndvrCC/20110208?authkey=Gv1sRgCIGs7aH1l5uGRA&feat=directlink

http://www.skinnyski.com/racing/results/

Conference Meet
http://www.skinnyski.com/racing/results/

Michigan - Thanks Jeff!
https://picasaweb.google.com/AndvrCC/20101228?authkey=Gv1sRgCPje4-fB-5_gRA&feat=directlink

State Meet Week

This week will be a busy one. Make sure that you are getting your rest.

Tuesday
2:00 PM - Send off for team. all members should sit together on North bleacher.

Wednesday
8:00 AM bus leaves for Giants Ridge.
1:00 PM Girls Relay
2:00 PM Boys Relay
3:00 PM Awards

Thursday
10:00 AM Girls Freestyle
11:00 AM Boys Freestyle
1:30 PM Girls Classic Pursuit
2:00 PM Boys Classic Pursuit

Notes: Athletes will need a lunch on Wednesday to bring on the bus. We will need a meal planned for Wednesday evening, Thursday morning, and Thursday lunch. Equipment turn in is Wednesday, Feb. 23rd allow at least an hour and a half. Thursday, Feb. 24th is the team banquet.

State Meet Directions and Carpooling

If you are interested in attending the State Nordic Ski Meet at Giants Ridge you can find directions by visiting this link to Bing Maps. Or visit the Giants Ridge web site: http://www.giantsridge.com/about/getting-here.

Some of you may want to car pool and you can use this post to organize rides. Just add comments to this post if you are looking for, or can provide, transportation.

Section Meet Start Delay

The start of the meet will be delayed due to the wind chills for the morning. Here are the new start times.

11:30 boys classic
12:10 girls classic

Nordic Banquet Feb 24th!

Please see the attached flyer for the 2011 Nordic Ski Banquet. Captains will hand out hard copies or you may print and fill out the form. Thanks!

Directions to Camp Ripley - Section Meet

Follow Hwy 10 North to Little Falls. Once you get to Little Falls there should be signs to Camp Ripley which take you north on Hwy 371. From there follow signs to the Section Meet. (I called and verified with the Camp that there will be signs). Please drive with care and observe speed limits within the camp.

Add 30 min to your planned driving time. Camp Ripley advises 30 min drive through camp due to gravel roads, check point and 30mph speed limit. Picture ID needed to enter the grounds.

If you would like to explore in more detail, follow this link to Bing Maps.

Sections Meet - Camp Ripley

Currently the race schedule for the meet is below.

10:30 Boys Classic
11:15 Girls Classic

1:30 Boys Skate
2:30 Girls Skate

4:00 Awards

The present plan is to leave Andover HS at 6:15 AM. Return will be after awards. Bring warm clothes as the race temps are going to be cold with some wind.

Conference Meet - Wednesday

A little heads up on the plan for Wednesday.

Bus leaves at 7:30 AM for Baker.
We are responsible for two workers for each of the 4 races.

Race Schedule:
10:00 Girls Skate
11:00 Boys Skate

1:30 Girls Classic
2:30 Boys Classic

4:00 Awards

Practice Saturday 1/29 and Races Next Week

Saturday the varsity skiers, and those interested in going to Baker, will meet at the high school to carpool. Baker does not allow buses on the weekends so we will have to caravan down.

Monday is the JV Conference meet at Woodland Trails in Elk River. The meet schedule is listed below. The team will be leaving the high school at 1:50 with dismissal at 1:40. Each racer will select the race they would like to ski in, skate or classic. Varsity skiers will not be going to the meet in Elk River. Instead they will be going to the Skijoring park. There will not be a bus, so if carpooling is an issue, then the skier would need to travel with the team to Elk River.

Start times:
3:31 boys skate at 1:00 on the clock. One skier per school at a time every 20 sec.
3:45 girls skate at 15:00 on the clock
4:05 boys classic 35:00 on the clock
4:20 girls classic 50:00 on the clock

Wednesday the competing skiers will miss the entire day of school for the meet at Baker. JV skiers will have to ski on their own after school. Girls go first at 10:00 AM with the skate leg.

Meet January 20th Canceled

Wind chills are too cold to hold a meet today. As a result we will have a normal practice at 3:00 PM and go to the Skijoring trails in Bunker.

This Weekend

For those of you in town this weekend, I would encourage you to come and watch at least one of the race days at Theodore Wirth. This is a Supertour/Collegiate/JNQ race and it will have some of the best skiers from the cities, midwest, and nationally. I'm sure there will be at least 2 olympians racing (Garrott Kuzzy, Caitlin Compton) and this is a nice opportunity to see them perform.

http://www.mayorsxcchallenge.com/

Here's a video of last years start & some racing:

Keep in mind that it was slushy, rainy, and slow that day. This year it should be much faster since it will be cold & hard.

Coach Dubay will be at the race waxing for the Minneapolis Ski Club, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, and Sisu Ski Club. Look for him under a Swix tent, possibly by the Gear West waxmobile.

Waxing Benches

I know a number of people were talking about wishing to have a wax bench of their own. Here's the most economical one out there: http://www.waxbenches.com/. You can get the stand with it if you're so inclined, but otherwise it is easily clamped to an old table or sawhorse.

Meet Schedule V2

Bumping this for easier retrieval!

ABC Relays Info

ABC Relays are held at Theodore Wirth Park located north of Hwy 55 between 100 and 94. From Hwy 55 follow Theo Wirth Pkwy north and you can't miss the ski area. As mentioned in the previous post, parking is VERY limited so plan accordingly.

Info for 1/12 & 1/15

Team pictures are planned for Wednesday at Bunker. Full uniforms will be required for the team pictures, warm-ups are fine for individual photos.

ABC Relays
7:30 Bus leaves Andover (load at 7:15)
10:00 Boys Race
11:30 Girls Race
1:00 Awards

Note: Parking is very limited and it is highly suggested that people car pool. The race consists of teams of 4 skiers where two classic and two skate. The first two legs of the relay classic.

Tuesday, January 11th Meet

This meet includes two separate races. The top 4 boys and girls from each team compete in an elimination sprint race while the rest of the team competes in a 5 km classic race. Each sprint racer competes in the qualifier sprint. The top 24 qualifiers move on to the heats where each qualifier is guaranteed two additional sprints. Below is the schedule for the afternoon.

5 km Schedule
3:30 Boys Waves
4:00 Girls Waves
4:30 Non Qualifying Sprinters

Sprints Schedule
3:30 Qualifiers, boys on the lower course, girls on the upper course
4:00 Heats begin and will go off every 5 minutes with alternating courses.
5:00 Girls Final
5:10 Boys Final

All sprint races are Freestyle technique and will begin with a double pole section. "Tracking" is NOT ALLOWED IN THE SPRINTS. False starts in the sprints are an immediate disqualification. Starters will begin each sprint heat with the commands "Starting with-in 10 seconds" and "GO". It is the TOE of the athlete that counts at the finish line.

A Peek @ the Week 1/3/11

Monday: Classic @ Elm Creek bus at 3:00

Tuesday: Race 7.0 km classic @ Elm Creek - Leave school at 1:50 out at 1:35
3:30 Boys 7K
3:45 Girls 7K
4:00 Boys 5K
4:15 Girls 5K

Wednesday: Skate
Thursday: Skate
Friday: Classic

Note: The conference sprints are on Jan. 11th.

Practices 12/31 - 1/2

Check with your captains for the specific times and locations.

Friday - 2 hours of skate skiing with bursts
Saturday - 2.5 hours classic with bursts
Sunday - 2 hours skate with 10 x 1 minute

If the weather stays warm for Saturday, then do the Sunday workout on Saturday and classic on Sunday.

Remember there is a meet on Tuesday. Sprints for varsity skiers and a 5 km skate for JV skiers.

How to foot throw

Just to clarify with some how to properly do a foot throw at the end of a ski race. This one is from 2002 after 20 kilometers of ski racing:

Volunteers Needed for 12/22 Meet

Andover is hosting the meet at Elm Creek on 12/22 (7.5K (or maybe 10K) skate) which means we need 5-6 parent volunteers to help run the meet. No training or prior experience required! Just show up early and ask if you can help.

Holiday Relays Directions

Click the link below for directions to Saturday's meet at Trollhaugen Ski Area:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Andover,+MN&daddr=45.26562,-93.15937+to:2232+100th+Avenue,+Dresser,+WI+54009+(Trollhaugen+Ski+Area+%26+Convention+Center:+Ski+Shop)&hl=en&geocode=FZI0sgIdtHxw-inxxY58KxazUjEgMcZaXzwTBw%3BFdSysgIdNoBy-infgu4akB-zUjHTqtqTuLCVfA%3BFXYBtAIdaMJ6-iGxGgZvXLp4Ag&mra=dpe&mrcr=0&mrsp=1&sz=12&via=1&sll=45.254347,-93.096428&sspn=0.136552,0.362892&ie=UTF8&ll=45.314012,-92.951202&spn=0.272817,0.725784&z=11

Holiday Relays Information

The schedule and race entries for Saturday are below.

6:45 AM Bus leaves Andover
8:00 AM Packet Pick-up
9:30 Girls Classic 4x3km
10:45 Boys Classic 4x3km
12:00 Noon Girls Skate 4x3km
1:00 PM Boys Skate 4x3km
2:15 Awards

Race Schedule for Thursday 12/16/10

Once again we will be at Elm Creek for our meet. This race will be an age group classic event. Each participating school will send out one skier every 20 seconds for each designated group. Freshman and beginning skiers race together. Since the race is classic it is important that each skier test their kick wax well before the start of their race. In most cases you will be expected to wax for kick on Wednesday after practice. This race will be a one loop 5km race, the Northern Lights loop.

Estimated start times.

3:30 - Sr. Girls
3:35 - Jr. Girls
3:40 – Soph Girls
3:45 - Freshmen Girls
3:55 – Sr. Boys
4:00 – Jr Boys
4:05 – Soph Boys
4:10 - Freshmen Boys
4:20 – Jr high/middle school/beginner Girls
4:25 - Jr high/middle school/beginner Boys

December 8th Race Schedule - Elm Creek

Approximate start times. There may be an attempt to compress start times but that is usually a difficult thing to do.

3:30 - Sr. boys
3:40 - Jr. boys
3:50 – Soph boys
4:00 – Sr. girls
4:10 – Jr girls
4:20 – Soph girls
4:30 – Freshman/Jr high/middle school/beginner boys
4:40 - Freshman/Jr high/middle school/beginner girls

V-2 Alternate/Open Field Technique

Watch this video for what the World Cup skiers look like on their Open Field/V-2 Alternate technique. Remember that Open Field and V-2 Alternate are the same thing, just different names.

Practice Monday

Practice begins at 2:45. We will be going to Bunker once again. Beginners will skate ski while experienced skiers will classic. Experienced skiers will need to have applied kick wax to their skis prior to leaving, so plan your arrival accordingly. The bus leaves at 3:00 PM. After practice we will focus on setting up for glide waxing.

There is a skate race at Elm Creek on Wednesday.

Winter Trip Chaperones

The team is looking for chaperones for the trip to Ironwood. There would be a private room available and duties would include preparing meals and supervising clean up. Let Coach Clark know if you are interested.

Winter Trip to ABR

It's time to plan for the Andover Nordic Ski Team's winter trip. Once again we will be staying at the Hilltop and River houses on site at ABR.

Information regarding the trip to Michigan is here. Please print out the form and bring it in with the appropriate check total.

Monday Nov. 29th

Skate ski practice.

Elm Creek has assigned practice times for this week. Our time is Monday 4:15 to 5:45. The bus will be leaving Andover HS at 3:20 and Oak View at 3:30. First year high school skiers will need to pick up their skis at the ski room well in advance of the scheduled departure time. Skis will not be handed out after 3:15. Middle school skiers will pick up their skis at Elm Creek. This will be our only scheduled time at Elm Creek for the week, it will be important to take advantage of all ninety minutes. Experienced skiers assist with the check-out of equipment and loading.

Week of Thanksgiving Break

Hopefully you are enjoying your days off from school. This is a difficult week to keep focused on training. However that is what we will have to do. For those looking to compete for a varsity spot you will need to be out training each of the days. Currently the parks are closed for skiing. However you may find a golf course to cruise around on to break up your endurance training program. We will have practice Friday morning at the school, starting at 9:00 AM. The emphasis will be on strength and endurance. If you need to get on some snow Trollhaugen will have the downhill areas open to Nordic skiers this weekend from 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM for $5.

AHEF Fundraiser

Please look for and email with the AHEF fundraiser sheet that Karen spoke about at the parent meeting. Thanks!

Chipotle Fundraiser

Please print and copy the attached flyer and hand them out to as many people as possible. Tell them to bring an appetite and the flyer to Chipotle Dec 6th between 5pm and 8pm. The Andover Nordic team will benefit from 50% of the proceeds!!

Cub Bagging Sunday Nov 21st - Info and Schedule!

THANKS to all who are bagging groceries at CUB FOODS this Sunday, Nov. 21 as a fundraiser for the Nordic Ski Team. If more students can join us for any shift, please do so! We would appreciate more parent volunteers (see schedule below)

Students - Please wear Andover High School or Nordic Ski apparel

Per the rules at Cub Foods, please remember that these items are not allowed when we are bagging groceries: Cell phones, ipods, sandals, flip flops, hats.

Here's the schedule:
SUNDAY, Nov. 21 CUB FOODS RIVERDALE - Coon Rapids

10:30 am - 1:00 pm Halley Bell, Nicole Heiztman, Taylor Weiss Ashley & Rachel Challes, Sidney Barnette, Katie & Erik Larsen, Maddie McKeefrey, Laura
Parent: Kelly McKeefry & Deb Weiss

1:00 - 3:30 pm
Sarah Larson, Haley Kragt, Kristine Nielson, Holly Horazdovsky, Emilee Velander, Sammy Kallenbach
Parent: Jim Kallenbach and ______________

3:30 - 6:00 pm
Hayley Eveland, Elena Velarde, Olivia Head, Anna Cofrin, Maranda Priem, Kaeli Kraker, Kayla Anderson
Parent: Raul Velarde and ______________

SUNDAY, Nov. 21CUB FOODS - on Highway 65 in Blaine

1:00 - 3:30 pm
Chris Meados, Lucas Hieb, Harrison, Siddons, Grant Wood
Parent: Mary Mead and ___________

3:30 - 6:00 pm
Dillon Walker, Dan Nielsen, Ryan McKeefry, Mitch Fisher, Sam Schedler, Alex Stoffel, Lucas Kivimaki, Kyle & Kurt Hellmann
Parent: Carl Walker and ____________

Andover Night @ Pioneer Midwest

The Andover team will be going to Pioneer Midwest Thursday, November 18th. The ski shop is located in Osseo on County Road 81, just north of 85th. Take Hwy 169 south to 85th and turn right. At the next lights cross County Road 81 and turn right into the McDonald's parking lot and follow the frontage road north to the ski shop. The address is below. Our target time for arrival is between 6:00 and 6:30, if possible.

Store Address:
(we are located 2 buildings north of McDonald's on Co. Rd. 81)
PIONEER MIDWEST
415 County Rd 81
Osseo, MN 55369

Tentative Schedule

Most of the dates are firm, though early racing in December can be problematic. Click on the schedule to enlarge.

Pioneer Midwest Ski Swap

The swap will be November 13th, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. This is an opportunity to pick up a few items or sell some off in order to restock. Complete information is included in the attached flyer.

2010-2011 Season - A Few Dates

November 13th - Ski swap @ Pioneer Midwest
November 15th - Start of season
November 16th - Parents Meeting @ Andover HS
November 18th - Andover night @ Pioneer Midwest
Novemeber 21st - Cub Bagging

Activity Card Fundraiser

Skiers should have gotten 15 activity cards to sell for 10$ each. Please make a good effort to get out and sell them all. If a skier sells more than 15, $5 goes back to the skier for each card sold. We have had several compliments already on the fact that these cards are focused on outdoor activities and not food....so take advantage of that!

If there are any questions please let me know.

ckwalker64@q.com

Summer Training Meeting

There's an informational meeting on the Minneapolis Ski Club summer program coming up for all those interested in participating. The link below has the info. If you are interested there is also a Spring option as well.

http://minneapolisskiclub.wordpress.com/2010/03/02/roll-into-summer-west-and-east-sides-msc-informational-meetings/

JV Conference Meet

The high school skiers will be dismissed at 2:00 PM and will leave at 2:15. The next stop will be the middle school, approximate arrival is 2:25. We'll arrive at Elm Creek just after 3:00. The first race is the boys skate at 4:00 PM. The girls skate should start around 15 minutes later. Classic will begin around 4:30.

Practice Thursday, Feb. 4th

Practice will be at Bunker with a bus picking up from the high school and then the middle school. After practice the team will be voting for MVP, Most Improved, Rookie of the Year, and nominating for captains. Remember we also have a meet on Monday.

2010 Banquet Information

When: Tuesday, February 23^rd.

Time: 6pm social time, dinner will be served at 6:30pm

Where: Majestic Oaks Golf Club, 701 Bunker Lake Blvd, Ham Lake

Dinner will be a buffet style, and will include Beef, Chicken, Salad, vegetables, and potatoes. Coffee and Pop are included.

The cost is $18 per person.

Please fill out the bottom of the attached form and return to Adam Larson at school, or mail to Laurie Larson by Thursday, 2/11. Please include payment, with checks made out to the Andover Nordic Ski Team. This is nonrefundable. Thank you.

Section 5 Meet Information

Tuesday, February 2nd @ Camp Ripley

• 6:15 AM - Load Bus
• 6:30 AM - Leave Andover
• 10:30 AM - Boys Classic
• 11:15 AM - Girls Classic
• 1:30 PM - Boys Skate
• 2:30 PM - Girls Skate
• 4:00 PM - Awards

Sat, Sun, Mon, Tues

We are into the final couple weeks of the season. It's very important that everyone is getting 8-10hrs of sleep a night. Also be sure to be eating healthy and drinking plenty of water. Drinking more orange juice than usual will help as well.

Saturday - Make sure to get out and ski for about 1-1.25hrs on your own.

Sunday - Off day

Monday - Practice will be an easy ski with pickups. Waxing will happen at the school afterwards. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT EVERYONE WAXES AT THE SCHOOL. Coach Dubay has wax that you do not that is much faster.

Tuesday - Leaving for sections in the morning. Coach Clark will post details tonight.

Friday Practice - 1/29

Practice will be at French Lake Park. We will be leaving from the high school at 3:00 PM. We are moving into the final phase of our training and tapering. Sections are Tuesday and JV Conference is the following Monday.

Conference Meet Start Times

10:00 Boys Skate (15 sec intervals)
11:00 Girls Skate (15 sec intervals)
1:30 Pursuit Classic Boys
2:30 Pursuit Classic Girls
4:30 Awards

JV Conference Meet

Due to the lack of snow and icy conditions at Woodland Trails in Elk River the JV Conference meet has been rescheduled. Plan for Monday, February 8th to be the race day for the JV Conference meet.

Monday 1/25 we'll be heading to Bunker for some intervals. We'll return early to start the waxing process for the varsity race on Wednesday.

Conference Varsity Teams

Boys Team:
Larson, Adam
Handorff, Aaron
Nielsen, Dan
Fisher, Mitch
Fastner, Daniel
Wold, Brandon
Hellmann, Kyle
Walker, Dillon
Kivimaki, Lucas
Hieb, Lucas
Alternate - Larson, Eric

Girls Team:
Yovetich, Marissa
Jensen, Amanda
McKeefry, Madeline
Heitzman, Nicole
Mead, Laura
Bell, Haley
McQuillan, Maria
Head, Olivia
Nielsen, Kristine
Larson, Katie
Alternate - Clark, Paige

Weekend Racing - Supertour/JOQs

This weekend several Andover skiers are racing on Saturday/Sunday at the Theodore Wirth trails in the Supertour/JOQ race. Dan Fastner, Maddie McKeefry, Amanda Jenson, and Marissa Yovetich will all be racing. While some are racing both days, some only one day, get out and cheer on your teammates. Also, you'll be able to watch some of the fastest skier is North America.

Several skiers that just made the Olympic team will be there and many past Olympians will be. If you need to find me, I will be under a giant red Swix tent. I hope to see everyone there as this opportunity does not come by very often. The last time it did was back in 2001.

Woodland Trails in Elk River

Here is a Link to the location for Woodland Trails in Elk River.

Races & JOQs

Congratulations for the boys team on a great race at ABCs. The team put Adam Larson in the position for the win and he almost pulled it off. Good job Adam on going for it. The girls team also did well even though a few were feeling a bit under the weather. Also, a big congratulations to Marissa for winning the 10k classic JOQ at Mt. Itasca.

Next weekend is the JOQ race at Theodore Wirth. I would like as many experienced skiers to race this as possible. Anyone who is not racing, this is a great chance to see some of the nations top ski racers and to cheer on your teammates that are competing. Information can be found at www.midwestjoq.com. YOU HAVE TO SIGNUP BEFORE MIDNIGHT ON MONDAY.

Nice job to everyone this weekend. The end of the season is coming and we'll start to ski really fast really soon.

Monday Practice 1/18/10

Meet at Elm Creek at 3:30 for practice. Since the race on Tuesday is classic we should be classic skiing on Monday.

Links to pictures from several meets

Here are the links to pictures from 12.17.09, 1.14.10 & 1.16.10. I'm still learning the new camera but they are getting better - enjoy!


http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/sredir?uname=emfastner&target=ALBUM&id=5294576101531112177&authkey=Gv1sRgCNPlkriEu4XtEg&feat=email

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/sredir?uname=emfastner&target=ALBUM&id=5427464198417047761&authkey=Gv1sRgCJv4qMqN9LmvlgE&feat=email

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/sredir?uname=emfastner&target=PHOTO&id=5427535978282328642&aid=5427535966220719201&authkey=Gv1sRgCIqDu9Df8YiUbA&feat=email

Viking Jersey Fundraiser on Sunday

The team received a generous donation of several MN Viking Favre Jerseys. Beef O'Brady's in Andover has offered to partner with the team to raffle them off during the Sunday play off game. We are in need of several team members to be at the restaurant from the start of the game to sell raffle tickets until we draw the winners at half time. Call or email Ellen (612 385 5282) emfastner@comcast.net if you can help out. Bring your family to Beef O'Brady's for a great way to watch the game and support the team. Wear your Anodver Nordic ski apparel.

Mesabi Start Times

The Classic races have been pushed back by one hour. The first racer out will be at 11:00 AM. The Freestyle races will only be moved back 20 minutes. This means the bus will be pulling out of the lot Saturday morning at 5:30, loading will be at 5:15. Get to bed early!

Tuesday Sprint Race - Elm Creek

There are some changes to the meet on Tuesday. For the varsity skiers there will be a preliminary heat to determine the top 24 and then seeded brackets for getting to the finals. There will also be a consolation bracket for the sprints. Beginning skiers and those that do not make the top 24 will have a 5 km race. Check out the 5 km course below. If any parents are available to help time please let me know, there is going to be a lot going on during this meet.

Race Times: The races will begin at 3:30 for both boys and girls sprints and boys 5 km. The girls 5 km will begin at 4:00. Those not qualifying for the top 24 will start a 5km race at 4:30.

Note: The race location has changed from the one listed on the schedule. We will be at Elm Creek, not at Eagle Lake.

Note: We will be leaving the high school at 2:00 and then stop at Oak View. Dismissal will be at 1:45.

Saturday Practice 1/2/10

The thermometer is registering -19 F this morning so it might be a good thing to avoid skiing until later today. Practice this morning will be canceled. Temps are suppose to improve by afternoon so go out for a ski later today. Since tomorrow, Monday, and Tuesday are going to be classic it would be good to skate today. Try to find another skier to go with, it'll be more enjoyable. Also, if you have a mask, you should wear it. Tomorrow should still be 10 to 12 pick-ups while classic skiing.

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

Here is what should be happening on these days.

Friday: On your own classic for 2 hours
Saturday: 10:00 @ the Bunker Skijoring parking lot, which is next to the compost site enterance off of Hanson Blvd
Sunday: On your own 90 minutes of classic with pick ups

Monday: Elm Creek after school pick up Middle School skiers at Oak View

Reuslts From 12-17-09

Yes, they are finally available. The race was a 7.5 km skate race with most first year skiers racing 5 km. Unfortunately the results show only the 7.5 km racers. Sorry but that is all that has been sent out.

Meet Tuesday

We have a meet on Tuesday next week. For experienced skiers the meet is a sprint race, classic format, and for beginners the race will be classic too but closer to a normal distance of 5 km. Make sure you are getting on your skis everyday.

Practice Thursday, Dec. 31

We'll be at Bunker for practice. Meet at the campground parking lot at 10:00. We'll have a two hour skate practice. look for some uptempo skiing.

Note: All of Bunker is open, including the golf course and skijoring course.

Practice Wednesday 12/30/09

Meet at Elm Creek at 10:15 AM for practice. Classic skiing until 11:45.

Those that skied at ABR can have the day off, or ski easy at Bunker for an hour.

Winter Break Practices & Racing

Here's a quick update with what the coaches would like you to do over winter break.

Wed: 8:45am practice. There are also races at Elm Creek on Wed. nights. 5k skate or classic, starts at 7pm. I think they are $5.

Thurs: Skate ladder intervals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. Equal recovery as the interval you just completed.

Fri: Off, Merry Christmas

Sat: Leave for winter camp. If you are not going to winter camp, get out and ski as much as you can. Try to shoot for 1.5-2hrs each day. At camp we will be doing about 3-4hrs of skiing a day. Try to do both techniques.

Tue 29th: Return from winter camp

Wed: TBD, most likely will have practice at Elm Creek if possible

Thurs: TBD, most likely will have practice at Elm Creek if possible.

Fri: TBD, some other location than Elm Creek.

The rest has yet to be determined. If we get some good snow in the next couple days, it will give us many more options for where to ski.

Wednesday Practice 12/23

Yes there is a practice Wednesday morning. Unfortunately there will not be a bus to the practice site. We will be meeting at Elm Creek at 8:45 AM and be done at 11:00 AM.

Tuesday Practice

For those that are actually checking the blog the practice will be at French. Be prepared to classic. There won't be any real classic tracks so it will be a good opportunity to work on ski control.

Monday 12/21

It appears that we will be skating at Bunker on Monday. After practice think about waxing. We will also be distributing some equipment when we return.

Results/Weekend Racing

I haven't seen any results yet, but it appears that our teams need to get in some more racing. The fastest way to get fast is to race more. Plain and simple.

So, this weekend there is a race at the Elk River trails. 10k skate. Perfect for HS racers. I'd like to encourage all of you to make it out there. Here's the link: http://www.elkrivernordic.org/noname.html

Also, I would like to get more people racing at the Junior Olympic Qualifiers. I got a bunch of posters that have all the race dates on them, so anyone who wants one can have one. The next qualifier is Jan 15-16 up at Mt. Itasca. Freestyle sprint and a 10k classic. Please let me know a week and a half ahead of time if you are planning on attending so I can get hotel rooms.

Start Times Dec 17th

These are approximate start times.

3:30 - Sr. boys
3:40 - Jr. boys
3:50 – Soph boys
4:00 – Sr. girls
4:10 – Jr girls
4:20 – Soph girls
4:30 – Jr high/middle school/beginner boys
4:40 - Jr high/middle school/beginner girls

Noodles Tonight 16-Dec 4-9PM

Just a reminder to eat at Noodles tonight and help support the team.

Also, in case anyone needs the flyer here it is. You may also just mention the fundraiser when you order.

Thanks!

ABR Update

Remember to turn in your $175 for the trip by Friday!

Also note the changes to this weeks schedule.

Cub Grocery Bagging Fundraiser Sat 12/19/09

We will be bagging groceries at the Cub Riverdale Store on Saturday 12/19/09, from 10:00 am to 7:00pm. If you haven't signed up for your 3 hour shift, please contact Ellen at 763 767 0767. We will need everyone to participate in order to have a successful day. If you have a t-shirt from past bagging days -wear it. I have a few extras that will be available on Saturday or wear some type of Andover t-shirt or sweatshirt. Thanks

Week of 12/14/09 Changes!

Changes in Bold.

We are still under the no snow schedule for Elm Creek. Hopefully the snow from Monday morning will help the groomers open additional parks. Bunker is still not skiable so we will be at the high school to begin with. If the schedule changes I will update the posted schedule.

Mon - @ Andover HS
Tues - Leave from Andover HS at 3:20 for French Lake
Wed - Leave from Andover HS at 3:20 for Elm Creek
Thurs - Meet @ Elm Creek, dismiss from classes at 2:00
Fri - @ Elm Creek, bus leaves Andover at 3:15

Note: Payment for the trip to Ironwood is due this Friday!

Results for December 9th

Below are the results for the Trollhaugen classic races (click on the image to view full size text). Congratulations to all the racers. Nearly everyone was on skis for the first time this year, as well as many for the first time ever. If you were able to survive the experience there is no doubt you will have a great time this season.

Winter Trip - ABR

Here is some information on our trip to Michigan for Saturday, December 26th through Tuesday, December 29th.

Cost: $175 + Saturday lunch and one evening meal
Load Bus: 9:00 AM
Leave Andover: 9:30 AM
Arrive at ABR: 2:00 PM
Return: 6:00 PM Tuesday, December 29th

Limit luggage. There will be laundry facilities. This trip will be an electronic free trip. Do not bring music devices, cell phones, or other electronic items.

Trollhaugen Ski Location

Sorry for the late notice folks but here is the loaction for Trollhaugen if you wish to go:

Take Cty18 (aka Crosstown) into Forrest Lake. Turn south on US61 to MN 97 East (turn right) and take for 13 miles. Turn Left onto MN 95 North and take for 6 miles. Turn Right on 243 East (will bring you across the bridge into WI). Take WI-35 North (left turn) for 4 miles. You will come into the small town of Dresser. In Dresser turn right on Cty Rd. F. Take F for 1 mile and Trollhaugen is on the right hand side

Or try this link to google maps.

Also check out www.trollhaugen.com

December 16 Pasta Night and Fundraiser at Noodles

Dinner at Noodles & Company in Riverdale, December 16. Pasta night for the team and a great fundraiser for the community. All team members should plan on attending after practice in prep for the meet on Thursday December 17. Check your emails for the flier/coupons - which are a must have in order for us to get the $$$$$. Print them off or email them around. Share them with family, friends, neighbors, classmates. The ski team will receive 25% of the proceeds when customers present the flier or coupon.

Noodle & Company Riverdale location
December 16 Wed. 4:00pm to 8:00pm
dine in or take orders
must present coupon or flier for the team to get credit

Use the AHEF order form and get your Noodles gift cards - one way for us to get double profits!http://www.anoka.k12.mn.us/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=178063&fileitem=66448&catfilter=10756

Questions call Ellen 763 767 0767

Week of 12/07/09

There are some changes for this week. Below are some of the highlights and possible changes. We are entering the portion of the season that changes suddenly due to snow availability. The Thursday meet at Elm Creek has been canceled.

Monday - @ Andover hand out uniforms
Tuesday - @ Andover
Wednesday - Meet at Trollhaugen, leave at 2:00 PM
Thursday - Practice with location to be determined
Friday - Practice with location to be determined

Blog Changes

Just a few notes on this blog; I will be updating the blog as I can. The new schedule you can find off to the right. If you click on them, they link to skinnyski.com. Once the race has happened and results are on the internet, I will have the schedule link to the results.

I will also post a new roster once it has been finalized. Last year we had about 25 skiers and this year we are excited to say that the team has grown to over 40 skiers. Both coach Clark and I are enthusiastic about the growth and continuing the success that this team has enjoyed.

There are a couple ski links off the right as well. Skinnyski.com is a good website that is based out of Minnesota. Most of our results will be posted on there. You can also find trail conditions, trail locations, classifieds, citizen races, and much more. Fasterskier.com is a national website that deals more with the upper end of ski racing and you can learn a lot what is happening nationally and what's going on in the industry. Teamtoday.org is run by the US Ski Team. It is updated a bit infrequently, but when they do update it, there are excellent pictures and you can learn what the US Ski Team is up to.

If anyone has any suggestions for this blog, please let me know. We would like to get as much information to parents and skiers as possible and your suggestions are appreciated.

Practices for the week of Nov 30th

Wed - 5 x 5min intervals with 5min recovery in between - Skate

Thurs - Classic rollerski with 15min of singlestick, strength afterwards

Friday - Run or rollerski - Coach Clark's decision

Saturday - For those who can, try to get out to Trollhaugen to ski on snow. The cost is $5 and they are open from 7am-9am. If you were varsity last year or are thinking about going to the junior national qualifier (JNQ) races up in Ironwood. There will be a 30min time trial at Elm Creek in the afternoon. You can go to Trollhaugen in the morning, but take it a bit easier.

Also, if you are planning or thinking about going to Ironwood for the JNQ races, please send me an e-mail and if you have any questions, please address them. Information on JNQs can be found at http://cxcskiing.org/site_pages/midwest_division/about.htm. To do these races you will need a CXC ski license. Again, if you have any questions, please send me an e-mail.