June 5, 2008 (Caribou, Maine) – The MWSC is excited to announce that Austin Ross will be joining their coaching staff. Originally from Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Ross skied for the Rocky Mountain Division at four Junior National Championships and was a four-year member of the Colby Varsity Ski Team. He helped Colby earn the Most Improved Club award at the 2008 National Cross Country Championships in Houghton, Michigan.

“We are very excited to have someone of Austin’s caliber join our staff,” said Eileen Carey, Program Director at MWSC. “The key to our success is having coaches who can inspire entire communities to lead healthier, more active lives – Austin can do that.”

As a student at Colby College, Ross was active in several facets of College and community life. He was on the executive board of the Athletic Advisory Committee, as well as being a student leader for outdoor orientation trips for groups of incoming students. Ross also brings experience in working with youth as a part of the Colby Cares about Kids program and a counselor at a summer camp.

“Austin was an outstanding leader during his four years with the Colby Ski program,” said Tracey Cote, Head Nordic Coach at Colby College. “His successful skiing background, leadership skills, and love of working with kids, will make him an excellent addition to the Maine Winter Sports Center.”

“I am looking forward to living and working in a group of communities with such a rich skiing heritage,” Ross said on Monday. “Nowhere else have I seen people embrace Nordic skiing with such enthusiasm. To become a part of that tradition is special.”

Ross will focus his efforts on community programs in the St. John Valley as well as youth and junior development throughout the County.