After placing second in State last year, the boys’ Nordic skiers hope to win sections and possibly State, according to head coach Doug Peterson.

“We’ve had three races, and we’ve done pretty well,” Peterson said. “Our boys are ranked pretty high in the state.”

The boys’ Nordic team is ranked second in the state. Senior Sean Cork is ranked second individually in the state as well.

Both Nordic teams raced at the Mesabi East Invitational Jan. 10.  Cork won the classic race, while senior Liam Schmelzle won the skate race. Schmelzle is ranked 10th in the state.

Senior captain Sam Olson said he feels very confident going into conference and sections races.

“I am very proud to be a part of a great team this year,” Olson said. “Everybody pulls their own weight and having two Mesabi champions on the team helps.”

Peterson said while the girls’ team does not have as high of a chance of qualifying for the State meet as the boys’ team, it has a chance at winning conference.

“The girls have a really good shot at winning conference if they keep skiing the way they are, and if they stay healthy,” he said.

“Sections will be more difficult, but we have two girls who could possibly qualify for the state meet.”

Freshman Annie VanPilsum-Johnson said the coaching this year has contributed toward their success.

“The coaches have made sure to pay attention to all different levels of skiers and not just the top athletes,” she said.

“It helps the team to grow as a whole and make it so all the skiers feel included in a team sport.”

According to VanPilsum-Johnson, the team will continue to improve until the end of the season to get ready for the big races.

“To prepare for sections we will most likely keep up what we have been doing,” she said.

“We do different workouts each day such as intervals, distance work and technique along with morning practices that focus on strength.”

The team’s next conference meet is Jan. 28, at Theodore Wirth Park.

Sections take place Feb. 4 at Theodore Wirth Park.