This week’s Word of the Week is “Teamwork,” chosen by Snowboard Director Tori Koski, featuring Junior Snowboard athlete Walker Overstake. Tori said of Walker, “From the skatepark, to on-snow training, Walker is ALWAYS including others. He is a mentor to all younger snowboarders and skateboarders and makes them feel a part of the team.”

Teamwork builds trust, promotes a wider sense of ownership, and blends complementary strengths. This is the perfect word to start our Word of the Week program as we begin our winter training sessions, when it is important to teach our athletes that teamwork is just as important as honing individual skills. As Robert Ingersoll once said “We rise by lifting others.” During this two week period, we will be encouraging athletes to work together, help each other through their trainings, and think about how being a team player can better their own lives and the lives of their friends, family, and community.