Posted By:

Maggie aka "The Turninator"

Royal Gorge Cross Country (RGXC) is thrilled to announce the launch of the RGXC Nordic Ski Team—a brand-new youth Nordic ski program in Tahoe for grades K–8. This multi-day cross-country skiing program is designed to inspire a lifelong love of Nordic skiing through adventure, skill-building, and plenty of fun.

Whether your child is strapping on skis for the first time or already chasing competition goals, the RGXC Nordic Ski Team has a place for them.

Why Join the RGXC Nordic Ski Team?

At Royal Gorge XC, we believe skiing is about more than technique—it’s about building confidence, perseverance, and community. From kindergartners just learning balance to 8th graders preparing for races, every cross country skier will find encouragement, adventure, and challenge on our trails.

Our experienced coaches create practices that blend skill development, endurance, and play. Some days it might be a long ski to a scenic overlook, other days a technique-focused session, or even a game of “soccer on skis.” No matter the activity, kids leave the trails smiling and ready for more.

The season kicks off December 6, 2025, with practices continuing through March 21, 2026, culminating in the exciting Gold Rush Race, one of the most celebrated Nordic events in the Sierra.

Program Details by Age Group

Manzanita (Grades K–2)

Perfect for ages 5–7, this group introduces the fundamentals—balance, agility, and coordination—through playful exploration. Skiers learn on classic skis only with a focus on fun and adventure.

• Prior Experience Required: None
• Practice Time: Saturdays 9:00am – 10:30 a.m.
• Technique: Classic only
• Equipment: Waxless classic skis with classic or combi boots (poles optional for 1st & 2nd grades)
• Rentals: A limited number of ski/boot combos are available through RGXC rental shop *Refer to the RGXC Nordic Ski Team handbook for more detailed information on equipment or contact the lead coach with specific questions.

Aspen (Grades 3–4)

This program builds skills in both classic and skate skiing. Through games, adventures, and encouragement, skiers learn to love the trails. For those interested, coaches provide support at local races.

• Prior Experience Required: None
• Practice Time: Fridays 4:00pm – 5:30pm & Saturdays 9:00am – 10:30 a.m. with occasional Sunday adventure or competition opportunities
• Technique: Classic and Skate
• Equipment: Waxless or skin classic skis, skate skis, combi boots, and one pair of poles
• Rentals: A limited number of ski/boot combos are available through RGXC rental shop

Lodgepole – Adventure Focus (Grades 5–8)

For kids who love exploring, this program emphasizes recreation, adventure, and outdoor skills. Along with skiing, athletes may learn about avalanche safety, orienteering, leadership, and backcountry awareness.

• Prior Experience Required: None
• Practice Time: Fridays 4:00pm – 5:30pm & Saturdays 9:00am – 12:00 p.m.
• Technique: Classic and Skate
• Equipment: Waxless or skin classic skis, boots, and poles (required), Backcountry skis and boots (optional)skate skis and poles (optional)
• Rentals: A limited number of skate ski/boot/pole rentals will be available.

Sugar Pines – Race Focus (Grades 5–8)

Designed for competitive skiers, this program emphasizes technique, endurance, and racing skills. Athletes are encouraged to compete in local races, the middle school league, and regional championships.

• Prior Experience Required: 1 year minimum
• Practice Time: Thursdays 4:00pm – 5:30pm, Fridays 4:00pm – 5:30pm, Saturdays 9:00am – 12:00pm
• Technique: Classic and Skate
• Equipment: Waxable classic skis, skate skis, combi or dedicated technique boots, two pairs of poles

Practice Location for all teams: Royal Gorge XC Center, Summit Station. Refer to the RGXC Nordic Ski Team handbook for more detailed information on equipment or contact the lead coach with specific questions.

Volunteer Opportunities

Parent involvement is essential! For each skier enrolled, one parent/guardian is asked to contribute at least two volunteer sessions throughout the season. Opportunities range from helping during practices to supporting Royal Gorge events.

Meet the Coaching Team

The RGXC Nordic Ski Team is led by a passionate coaching staff with world-class experience.

• Will Sweetser, Program Director – With over 30 years of coaching experience, Will has trained Olympians, World Cup athletes, and Junior World Champions in skiing, biathlon, and endurance sports. He brings unmatched expertise and enthusiasm to RGXC.
• Sarah Dominick, Head K–2 Coach – A lifetime Nordic enthusiast, Sarah raced nationally and internationally before turning her passion toward youth coaching. She brings playful energy and decades of racing experience.
• Sarah Beaulieu, Assistant Coach – An international-level biathlete and former Sugar Bowl Academy skier, Sarah combines competition experience with a background in exercise science.
• Susan Sall, Head 3–4 Coach – With recent coaching experience in Sweden and a love for ski marathons like the American Birkebeiner, Susan brings both international perspective and passion for the sport.

Together, this team creates a welcoming, supportive environment where every skier can thrive.

Join Us on the Trails

The RGXC Nordic Ski Team at Royal Gorge is more than a program—it’s a community of young athletes, families, and coaches who share a love for snow, trails, and adventure. Whether your child dreams of racing or just wants to play in the snow, this is the perfect way to grow as a skier while making lifelong friends.

Spots are limited, so don’t wait—join us for the inaugural season and help shape the future of youth Nordic skiing at Royal Gorge.