First Official Week of Practice!

Read all about our first official week of practice from first year Madi Schriefer, who hails from Rochester, NY and some deep reflection from fellow sophomore, Erin Waters. 

Hi all,

It has been quite the week here for SLU Nordic—starting off with the 3k test on the track last Tuesday Morning.  We rallied that afternoon for the Canadian Strength Test and ran afterwards.  On Wednesday, we went to Brown’s Bridge for a course preview for the double pole test.  Thursday morning held an early run, drills, and core.  Later that day, we headed back to Brown’s Bridge for the grueling double pole test.

Friday's practice was yet another course preview.  We drove to River Road, where we skied the skate time trial.  It was so pretty, as the leaves are quickly changing.  At this point, we’ve spent quite a bit of time in the vans, so the girls put together a music playlist.  I assume the guy’s van listens to NCPR, if not narrated by Dustin and Ryan themselves.

After a few big days of training, we headed into Saturday’s TT—some more tired than others.  It felt relieving to cross the finish line and be done with testing (for now).  On Sunday, we finished off the week with a beautiful OD classic ski and run in Colton.

Overall, it was a fun week of hard work and team bonding.  I hope all of us are finding effective ways to still stay healthy and continue to wake up for those early morning practices.  If you’re looking for a new alarm, I recommend the SONIC BOMB. Thanks for reading!

-Madi

Now that our first week of practice has come to a close, I think it is safe to say we could all use a nap. But despite how intense this first week was, it was also very exciting; I think we are going to have an awesome year both performance wise, but also in our cohesion as a team.  Everyone showed both grit and enthusiasm, even when the time trial results were not exactly what they wanted. Each person was supportive of their teammates and willing to look at the results as a stepping stone to success. I am so excited to see our young team transform over the coming year!

-Erin

Pictures from the week:

Ruben, Ryan and Brendan sprinting to the finish of the 3k test

Calvin and Dustin heading into the finish

We had personal records in the 3k test this year. 

3k PR's: Erin W. PR'd by 2 seconds from last year. Dana H. PR'd by 10 seconds from last year. Calvin S. got the same exact time as last year. Henry J. PR'd by 63 seconds. Way to go, guys!

Strength Test featuring: Kate on dips and Jordan on Box Jumps

Canadian Strength test in the ski room this year!

It was a great first week and we are headed in the right direction as a team! This weekend we will be doing some quality training in Lake Placid and will have a blog post up when we return! 

Thanks for following our adventures. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep track of us!
-Dana