August 06, 2010 – Launched for the first time this summer, 40 of the best J2 boys and girls in the U.S. were invited to take part in a the USSA National J2 Talent Camp. The following is a written report with photos from U.S. Ski Team coach Bryan Fish. Original camp announcement can be found HERE – more photos can be found HERE.

Implementing something new can bring with it plenty of enthusiasm, but also some anxiety. The thought of a National J2 Camp makes a great deal of sense on paper, with athletes at this age (14-15 years old) being in their developmental phase which allows them to adapt into top cross country skiers more rapidly. That being said – there can be a reluctance to want to add the extra travel required to bring athletes from all over the country for a single camp. But any reluctance I might have had was erased at this camp after just three short days here at Michigan Tech University in Houghton, MI where the camp is being held.

The attentiveness and focus of these athletes as well as the professionalism of the planning and programming has been impressive. The opportunity to get top athletes and coaches together from throughout the country is inspiring and educational for all.

Each day includes two training sessions with an educational session each night. Every other day also includes an afternoon video analysis. Most of the sessions are ski specific with a great deal of coaching by a highly educated crew of coaches.

Thanks to the sponsors of this camp which have made this possible. NCCSEF (National Cross Country Ski Education Foundation www.nccsef.org – read more here) provided $5k in funding for this camp which greatly helped offset the costs for the attendees. Camp sponsors also include Chums, Beyond Coastal, V2, Toko, NENSA and USSA.