The Lincoln alpine ski team is gliding into a new season and hoping to continue its dominance by winning its fourth state title in five years.

The ski team includes many talented athletes, including junior Jonas Strohlei, one of the top youth skiers in the nation. “Last year I was ranked 15th in the nation and first for Oregon, Washington and Idaho,” said Strohlein.

Junior Marcus Fong, who skied with the team at the Mount Hood Race Team and Academy during their freshman year, is joining the ski team this season. He is also a highly regarded skier. “All I know is that one year I was second in the nation, for my age, for downhill,” said Fong.

Becoming one of the nation’s top skiers doesn’t happen overnight. Both Fong and Strohlein have been skiing for more than half of their lives. Strohlein began at the age of one, and Fong was four years old. “I started skiing 12 years ago on the Mount Hood Race Team, and I got into it because my mom did European ski racing, and it was a major part of her life, and she wanted to bring it into my life,” said Fong.

Along with skiing for years, they have also both participated in specialized skiing academies up at Mount Hood. “My freshman year, I was racing full-time, so five days a week training (during the winter ski season),” said Fong.

Fong and Strohlein have yet to ski in Cardinal uniforms, but both are excited to represent the Lincoln community this season. “I’ve not been on the Lincoln ski team. I’m gonna ski this year. I’ve been racing at a slightly higher level than the Lincoln team might provide. But I’m sure it will still be fun and I’m glad it provides people with an opportunity to get into the sport,” said Fong.

The Lincoln team offers students unique experiences, skilled coaches and trainers to help them improve as skiers. “We aim to provide a positive environment to all skiers and foster new friendships among different people with similar interests. Our coaches and volunteers will work to provide a safe experience for the skiers while still enabling them to enjoy the slopes with their new skills,” according to the Lincoln High School ski team website.

Whether you have experience skiing or you just want to try a new sport with friends, you are welcome to join the Lincoln ski team.