Getting Air: Team Spirit and the HHS Ski Jumping Team

Since 2000, the Hanover High ski jumping team has won 10 State Championship trophies, including this past year’s in 2019; when they haven’t won, they have been runner-up seven times. Their coach, Thomas Dodds, who has been at Hanover since 2008, is proud of this record, but being repeat champions is not the team’s greatest achievement. They stand out as a welcoming and bonded community.

“We are typically blessed with a team that has great camaraderie and spirit,” says Thomas. “We always have a blend of athletes who have jumped in the past with those who have heard about jumping by word of mouth. . . . That mix seems to get us a fun-loving, spirited group. Traditionally our captains, athletes, and parents go out of their way to be inviting at home meets—that typically means a roaring fire, snacks, and hot chocolate.”

Hanover High will be hosting the State Championship meet on the Roger Burt K32-meter jump on February 13 at 6pm.

By Karen Wahrenberger

Photos by Herb Swanson

Getting Air: HHS Ski Team [10 Images] Click Any Image To Expand