At this time of the year, when the temperatures are below freezing, the days are shorter and the snow piles up, the Ski Club members are ready to hit the slopes. The Ski Club is one of the most popular clubs in the school, with about 90 students on the roster. Its sponsors are teachers Andrea Niedbala and Kristen Milonovich.

“I like being the ski club sponsor because it was a club that I really enjoyed when I was in high school and I like the environment of ski lodges. I love to see my students enjoying this sport while I sip coffee in front of the fire in the lodge and grade papers,” Niedbala said.

Every year, they go to different slopes and ski resorts around the area. Last year, their only trip was to Seven Springs on Feb. 19. Despite the small amount of melted snow and grass and mud showing, the trip was fun for everyone who attended. This year, their first trip was on Jan. 26 at Seven Springs resort.

“It [Ski Club] is a good, organized way to go skiing with your friends. Also, with fundraising and rental options, anyone of all grade levels can have a great time,” junior David Eisenbrown said.

Despite having to cancel their trip to Hidden Valley on Thurs. Jan. 11 due to lack of participation, they were still able to get out to Seven Springs 15 days later. Their second trip is scheduled for Feb. 10 at Peek’n Peak.

“I encourage anyone who is interested in skiing to try it! You can enjoy it at all ability levels – I was never a really great skier, but enjoyed the easier slopes at a slower pace. We even have many students who come on trips with us who want to do snow tubing,” Niedbala said.

The club is always open to new members, no matter who they might be.

“Even if you are not in ski club, join us for a trip! Snow sports are expensive, but we have fundraising to help with the costs,” Niedbala said.