Monday, August 4, 2014

Julia Ford Day at SDSC

This morning we were joined by 2014 Sochi Olympic competitor Julia Ford.  Julia grew up skiing at Okemo, went to Holderness for her junior years, and made the USST at the age of 18 and has been competing at the World Cup level ever since. 


There are a lot of qualities in people that make them special and drive them to high achievements, and in Julia so many distinct and unique qualities are present.  First she is tough.  Physically she works her tail off in the gym for preparation and on the hill for training.  Mentally she convinces herself to do things that are challenging or scary, conquering any and all inhibition.  Her mindset of approaching challenges head on allows her to separate herself from her peers. 

Second, Julia played multiple sports at a high level all the way through high school.  When she was named to the USST at the end of her senior year at Holderness, she didnt know right away that she wanted to go to the National Team.  She played soccer and lacrosse at such a high caliber that she was considering going to college to play one of those sports at the Division I level.  The athletic ability our kids can gain from playing all sports sets them up to improve their skills, anticipation, and overall ability.  Julia is an amazing athlete who works hard to transition her ability to skiing. 



Third, Julia is so nice and fun to be around, and that positive energy helps her enjoy what she is doing with support of all people around her.  Being a happy person also allows an athlete to take the bad with the good and stay motivated and striving for their goals. 

This morning, Julia ran our camp through warmups and a game before instructing 5 stations.  We ended with a question and answer period while the kids hydrated and then Julia got to sign some water bottles, hats, and even cell phone cases. 


Julia Ford is special, and she just got 50 new fans who will be cheering her on all winter.  US Nationals are at Sugarloaf in March 2015.  Maybe those in the East can make it to one of her races to cheer her on to another medal.

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