In an astonishing display of skill and determination, the Cardigan Middle School ski team delivered an unprecedented performance at the Class A Championship in February at Mount Sunapee, sweeping both the slalom and giant slalom titles. This remarkable victory saw Cardigan’s young squad, composed entirely of middle school students, decisively outmaneuver a field dominated by older, more experienced high school athletes, leaving competitors and spectators alike in awe. The immediate reaction from behind the finish line, initially a comment on the athletes’ youth — "Look how small they are" — quickly shifted to questions of disbelief: "What’s a junior boarding school?" and "Did we just get beaten by middle schoolers?" The answer, emphatically, was yes.
The Class A Championship, a significant fixture in the regional high school ski circuit, typically sees teams vying for supremacy across various divisions based on school size and athletic program strength. Cardigan’s entry into this high-stakes environment, particularly as a junior boarding school fielding a team of middle schoolers against seasoned high school programs, was an underdog story waiting to unfold. The Cougars, however, did not just show up; they commanded the event. Their collective performance in both the technical discipline of slalom, which demands precision and quick reflexes through tightly spaced gates, and the speed-oriented giant slalom, requiring powerful turns and strategic line choices over a longer course, was nothing short of spectacular. This double sweep underscored not only individual talent but also a profound team cohesion and strategic execution. Seven athletes led the charge, with particular standout performances from Cam Blatz ’25 and Thomas Choi ’25. Crucially, the success was attributed to a pervasive team culture where every member contributed to an environment of support and collective drive that resonated through every gate and every run. Director of Skiing Julia Ford emphasized this foundational aspect: "What makes this team special is how they push each other every day. They work together, support each other, and grow as a team. That is what makes the results meaningful." This philosophy of mutual upliftment, rather than sole reliance on individual prowess, proved to be the decisive factor in their historic triumph.
The momentum generated by their dominant performance at Sunapee was not a fleeting success; it served as a powerful launchpad for further achievements on a grander scale. Both Cam Blatz and Thomas Choi carried their exceptional form to the U.S. Ski & Snowboard U16 National Championships held at Sugarloaf, an event renowned for featuring some of the deepest and most competitive junior fields in the country. This championship represents a critical proving ground for aspiring young skiers, bringing together top talents from across the United States. In this highly pressurized environment, both Cardigan athletes delivered impressive results in giant slalom. Blatz secured an outstanding second-place finish, narrowly missing the top spot, while Choi followed closely with a commendable fifth place. These results are significant not only for their individual merit but also for highlighting the advanced developmental stage of Cardigan’s program, producing athletes capable of competing at the highest national junior levels. Further cementing their elite status, both Blatz and Choi also earned the distinction of stepping onto the international stage, representing their respective countries in prestigious elite competitions. This progression from regional dominance to national recognition and international representation within the same season underscores the extraordinary trajectory of these young athletes and the effectiveness of their training regimen.
Cardigan’s success story extends far beyond race results, rooted deeply in a holistic development philosophy that prepares athletes for both competitive excellence and personal growth. Cam Blatz’s transition to Cardigan, a junior boarding school environment, offered a unique set of challenges that ultimately fostered significant personal development. Coming from an online schooling background, Blatz initially grappled with the adjustment to a structured boarding life and the enforced disconnection from constant digital access. "Not having my phone was a big adjustment," he recounted. "I had been doing online school, so I was used to being home and connected all the time." This initial hurdle, however, was swiftly overcome thanks to a robust support system woven into the fabric of the Cardigan community. Coaches like Ms. Ford were "there from day one," providing guidance and mentorship, while teachers such as Mr. Turcotte offered crucial academic assistance, particularly in challenging subjects like math. Older teammates in his dorm also played a vital role, regularly checking in on him and helping him navigate the nuances of boarding school life, illustrating the peer-to-peer support that defines the school’s culture.
A cornerstone of Cardigan’s developmental approach is its emphasis on balancing academics with a rigorous athletic schedule, a skill that is paramount for student-athletes aiming for higher levels of competition. Blatz highlighted how his teachers proactively supported him during extensive travel for ski competitions. "My teachers stayed in touch when I traveled. They made time for Zoom calls and helped me keep up. Everyone supported me." This flexibility and commitment from the faculty ensured that academic progress remained uncompromised despite his demanding athletic commitments, fostering a well-rounded educational experience. Furthermore, Cardigan’s multi-sport environment proved instrumental in Blatz’s skiing prowess. Engaging in other sports like football and lacrosse provided significant cross-training benefits and mental conditioning. "Football helped with conditioning," he explained, noting its physical demands. "Learning plays improved my focus and footwork." Lacrosse, on the other hand, offered a crucial "mental reset," allowing him to step away from the intensity of ski training. He observed, "When I came back to skiing, things clicked again." This strategic integration of diverse athletic experiences not only prevents burnout but also develops a broader range of physical and cognitive skills that are transferable and enhance performance in their primary sport. This comprehensive approach exemplifies how Cardigan cultivates not just specialized athletes but adaptable, resilient individuals.
Beyond the podium finishes and national accolades, it is the deeply personal, formative experiences at Cardigan that truly resonate with athletes like Cam Blatz. When reflecting on what he will remember most from his time at the school, Blatz speaks with an emotional depth that underscores the profound impact of the community. He recalls with vivid clarity a rain-soaked lacrosse victory against rival Eaglebrook School, a game made even more memorable by the entire student body lining the sidelines, their cheers echoing through the deluge. This moment encapsulated the vibrant spirit and unwavering support that define Cardigan’s athletic events. Equally poignant were his "last times" in a Cardigan jersey – his final home game against Eaglebrook and the culminating Eaglebrook Day, a deeply ingrained tradition. These moments, imbued with the bittersweet understanding of impending departure, brought him to tears. "It meant everything," he confessed, highlighting the immense emotional investment and sense of belonging he found within the school’s athletic programs. International recognition also held a special place, with a gold medal at the prestigious Whistler Cup bringing not only personal pride but also a wave of celebratory recognition back on campus, reinforcing the collective pride in his achievements. These anecdotes paint a picture of an environment where athletic success is celebrated, but the bonds forged and the memories created are cherished even more deeply, shaping young men far beyond their athletic careers.
The unprecedented victory at Sunapee, according to Blatz, was a direct consequence of the team’s exceptional unity and collective effort. "I have never seen us work like that," he recalled, emphasizing the palpable energy. "Everyone was at the bottom cheering. People on course could hear us." This powerful display of mutual support translated directly into on-course performance, creating a dynamic that propelled the team to victory. "We were a team. That is why we were fast." This sentiment highlights a critical lesson in youth sports: while individual talent is important, a cohesive, supportive team environment can elevate performance to extraordinary levels. This principle is further exemplified by the competitive yet profoundly collaborative relationship between Blatz and Choi. Throughout the season, the two athletes consistently pushed each other, often separated by mere tenths of a second in races. "People compare us all the time," Blatz acknowledged, "But we make each other better." This healthy rivalry, rather than fostering animosity, served as a powerful catalyst for continuous improvement for both skiers. Crucially, this intense competition remained confined to the racecourse. "At the end of the day, we are just friends," Blatz affirmed, showcasing a maturity and sportsmanship that underscores the values instilled by the Cardigan program. This balance between fierce competition and genuine friendship is a testament to the strong character development fostered within the team, demonstrating that rivals can also be the most effective training partners and lifelong companions.
Looking ahead, the exceptional development fostered at Cardigan has prepared both Cam Blatz and Thomas Choi for the next significant steps in their promising ski racing careers. Blatz is set to attend Stratton Mountain School, one of the nation’s premier ski academies known for its rigorous academic and athletic programs, where he will also train with the highly selective U.S. Regional Development Team. This opportunity places him squarely on a pathway towards potential national and international team berths. Similarly, Thomas Choi will continue his development at Burke Mountain Academy, another esteemed institution with a rich history of producing Olympic and World Cup athletes. These moves signify a natural progression for athletes who have already demonstrated elite potential at the junior level. Blatz expressed his readiness for this new chapter, confidently stating, "I am ready. Cardigan prepared me." This sentiment is a powerful endorsement of Cardigan’s program, affirming its effectiveness in equipping young athletes with the skills, discipline, and resilience needed to thrive in highly competitive environments. Despite the excitement for future challenges, the departure from Cardigan is tinged with emotion. "Leaving, however, will not be easy," Blatz admitted, reiterating his deep connection to the school by adding, "This place is family." This personal reflection underscores the enduring impact of the Cardigan community, which cultivates not just athletic prowess but also profound personal bonds.
Cardigan’s extraordinary achievement at Mount Sunapee and the subsequent national and international successes of its athletes offer a compelling case study for the broader landscape of youth athletic development. It unequivocally demonstrates that while innate talent is a valuable asset, it is the strategic alignment of environment, culture, and consistent, intelligent daily training habits that ultimately dictates who truly progresses and excels. The Cardigan model, with its emphasis on holistic support, multi-sport engagement, and a team-first ethos, provides a powerful blueprint. It illustrates what is possible when a program commits to nurturing young athletes not just as competitors, but as well-rounded individuals. This group of middle schoolers showed precisely what happens when these three critical elements—talent, supportive environment, and dedicated culture—converge, setting a new benchmark for junior athletic programs and inspiring a re-evaluation of traditional development pathways in ski racing. Their journey stands as a testament to the profound impact of a program that develops athletes "ahead of the curve," preparing them for success both on and off the slopes.
This article reflects the 2024–2025 season and athlete results from that period.
