The McCall-Donnelly High School Alpine Club enjoyed a fun-filled, annual ski day at Brundage Mountain Resort on Tuesday, February 3, with 65 club members attending. The club brings together students with a wide-range of enthusiasts, from seasoned skiers and snowboarders, to students trying the sport for the first time. Many students from the Multilingual program were able to participate, making the event an inspiring example of community-building through winter sports and camaraderie. Watching students gain confidence and develop a life-long appreciation for the sport was a highlight of the day.
The Alpine Club’s mission is to create opportunities for students to ski together, support one another, and share their love of winter recreation. This year’s club includes over 100 students.
Keira Rider is this year’s acting president of the Alpine Club. Rider organized the event, ensuring it was welcoming and successful for all participants. Brundage Mountain once again demonstrated its generous support by providing free ski rentals, lift tickets and lessons for students in need, as well as sponsoring Alpine Club sweatshirts for all students in the club. Club members also contribute by donating ski gear and apparel to help ensure all students have access to the equipment they need.
“Brundage is happy to be able to sponsor the McCall-Donnelly Alpine Club again this year to give all students the chance to share our passion for alpine sports and we hope to continue this program for many years in the future,” said Ken Rider, General manager of Brundage Mountain.
The annual ski day is a special opportunity for students to celebrate winter sports, build confidence and foster connections that extend beyond the slopes. The bluebird day was punctuated by superb groomed runs and spring-like conditions, with 100% of the mountain open for exploring. Many students enjoyed their lunch outside before heading back out on the slopes.
A heartfelt “thank you” goes out to Ken Rider and the entire Brundage staff and instructors for their warm welcome and continued support. Additional thanks to Alpine Club staff advisors Sarah Covault, Krista Oberlindacher, and John Phillips–and last but certainly not least, Keira Rider–for her outstanding leadership and dedication in making this event a success.
-Matt Hellhake
MDHS Alpine Club Advisor