Mono skier independence

Receiving a GoHawkeye grant for my HydraLite mono ski a few years ago really helped re-invigorate my commitment to lifelong skiing. I have been volunteering as a coach with my local adaptive program since 2016 and really love teaching others the basics of skiing. My heavy old Yeti kept me on the hill but I didn’t realize how much it was limiting my performance.  The new ski allows me to be more independent and aggressive on the hill and I’ve made the most of it! 

For nearly a decade, I have been volunteering twice a week with the adaptive program at Brandywine, near Cleveland Ohio. Although the “mountain” is certainly not known for its steeps, it is a great learning hill and the ski school is one of the busiest in the country. Three Trackers Adaptive Program is entirely volunteer run and, like most programs, only a few of the dedicated volunteers are themselves disabled. As a lifelong monoskier, I am able to provide a unique perspective to the participants. In the past few years, with my encouragement, 3 of our beginner monoskiers have decided to seek their own grants for equipment and have planned trips to bigger mountains!  Seeing others build a love for sit skiing and become confident is a feeling like no other. 

Since getting my new mono, I’ve also recommitted to challenging myself and building the skills I can share with others. In 2023 I flew to Colorado for the Adaptive Sports Center’s Ladies Session and spent 4 days skiing powder at Crested Butte.  Last year, I was accepted to the Sitbird Advanced Mono Skills camp in Utah, which really pushed me to my limits in the best way! This winter, I hope to make a trip to New England for one of the monoski festivals there. Being with other advanced adaptive athletes simply to enjoy skiing as recreation is really special and I’m so glad to be a part of this community!