The History of Nordic Rocks
February 06,
2020
Six years ago, Nordic Rocks for Schools began in Wisconsin with the support of Central Cross Country Skiing (CXC).
THE HISTORY
Six years ago, Nordic Rocks for Schools began in Wisconsin with the support of Central Cross Country Skiing (CXC). Looking at adult cross country ski athletes, it became clear that skiers came from families of skiers. So, in order to try to grow the culture of cross country skiing, CXC developed a plan to get skis into elementary schools so children could be exposed to the sport even if they didn’t come from a skiing family.
Additionally, it was hoped kids would get excited about skiing and then encourage their families to try skiing as well. CXC obtained a grant from the Winter Sports Foundation that allowed them to purchase skis to be used in schools.
So, ski clubs and organizations were contacted and asked to support their local elementary schools. Some provided volunteers in schools. Some provided family ski events. Additional skis were obtained by CXC each year. Schools are encouraged to use the skis in ways that best fit their communities. And thus the program continued to grow and evolve. By the end of the 2018-19 winter season, more than 20,000 children had the opportunity to try cross country skiing on Nordic Rocks skis! That is a huge impact!
The program at Granby Elementary in Granby, Colo., is a collaboration between the school and Snow Mountain Ranch and other entities. With Nordic Rocks, children are experiencing and enjoying cross country skiing during school hours.