This article originally appeared on Newschoolers.com, written by Mike Rogge. It has been edited for brevity.
Valentine’s Day at Loon Mountain was more than just a celebration of love; it was a testament to the passion for skiing. Salomon’s Jib Academy, now in its sixth year, brought together the East Coast’s finest young skiers for a day of learning, fun, and competition. The event was graced by Salomon’s pro team, including John Symms, Michael Clarke, Matt Walker, Nick Martini, Bobby Brown, Keri Herman, and others, who served as coaches and mentors to the enthusiastic participants.
The day began with a festive atmosphere at the Salomon booth, adorned with Valentine’s Day decorations. Jenny Nauftin efficiently organized the young crowd into groups, setting the stage for a day filled with skiing, coaching, and camaraderie.
The simple rules of the day were: 1) Be safe, 2) Have fun, and 3) Have more fun. The participants, along with their pro coaches, took to the slopes, tackling Loon’s impressive array of rails and jumps. A particular highlight was the butter box feature, which saw a flurry of creative spins and tricks from the young skiers.
As the wind subsided, the jumps came alive. Skiers like Martini, Walker, and Bobby Brown showcased their skills, offering a glimpse of what to expect in upcoming competitions.
Lunchtime at the Jib Academy was a unique affair, where athletes, media, parents, and participants mingled, shared stories, and enjoyed a well-deserved break.
The afternoon finals were a display of talent and style, with 12 finalists showcasing their best on two jumps and multiple rail features. The judges, comprised of the Jib Academy contestants themselves, awarded third place to Chris Moustafa, second to Mark Marino, and first to Brendan Wall, who won a pair of skis and a trip to the final Jib Academy stop in Mammoth.
The event concluded with applause and accolades from the Salomon athletes, as the participants left with hearts full of joy and arms full of swag. It was a day that proved Valentine’s Day and the Jib Academy are indeed a perfect match in the skiing world.
For a detailed account of the event and more photos, visit the original article on Newschoolers.com.
