October 22, 2010 (Aroostook County, ME) – As the leaves fall and the air gets cooler, thoughts of an exciting winter season follow suit. This year the Maine Winter Sports Center is giving adults across the region another reason to get excited about our snow-covered months. Starting in November MWSC Development Coaches will begin working with any interested adult on improving Nordic ski technique and taking part in an active winter lifestyle through the Arooskis Nordic Program.

This program is unique for the Maine Winter Sports Center, an organization recently recognized internationally for its work with youth, as it is targeted specifically towards adults. Whether new to the sport, or a seasoned veteran on cross-country skis, the Arooskis program is designed to help everyone develop a greater love for the sport of cross-country skiing while improving skills and personal fitness.

While the program will focus primarily on Nordic skiing, the Arooskis is for more than those just interested in skiing groomed XC trails. “Nordic skiing is part of a lifestyle that’s about being outside, being active and having fun”, says MWSC Coach Mike Smith. “As part of the Arooskis program we want to broaden participants’ view of the skiing lifestyle from groomed trails to adventures of all sorts.” Smith also says, “The focus of the Arooskis is to help everyone reach their personal goals. For some that means a dedicated training plan and race strategy. For others it means just gaining more comfort on skis. We’ll gladly work with any enthusiastic individual whether they are beginners or experts, racers or recreationalists.”

Whatever your goal or experience, the Arooskis program is your opportunity to get out with other adults interested in being active in the winter outdoors. The program, starting in November, will meet weekly in Fort Kent at the 10th Mtn. Center, and in Presque Isle at the Nordic Heritage Center. “If you are an adult that enjoys getting outside in the winter,” says Smith, “you will not want to miss out on the Arooskis.”

For more information contact Community Development Coach, Mike Smith at mikes@mainewsc.org / 207-227-0250. www.mainewsc.org