What blows me away is that we have ELITEAM alums that are 33 years old who have kids that will soon be signing up for ELITEAM ! I am also proud that of the 10 coaches on staff this year, 6 are ELITEAM alums. It has also been great for us to see that Eliteamers have gone on to become NCAA Ski Champions, USST Development athletes, VT State Amateur golf Champions, and many more have graduated from Ski Academies throughout the nation. No matter where they end up, what sport they pursue, or what type of career they choose, we believe that the lessons learned at ELITEAM will help guide them into the future. We are all about healthy living, learning, growing, challenges, and a positive attitude. These are elements we strive for everyday in our own lives.
A lot has changed since 1991, when Kraig Sourbeer and I started ELITEAM. Our home, the GMVS campus, has been totally renovated and now houses a PT clinic, Student Center, a wonderful gym, a fantastic ropes course, climbing walls, and quality dorms. Kraig has moved on to the USST as a coach. Kelley and I continue to tweak the program to include more cross-training activities such as yoga, physical testing, core workouts, and river running.
Even more surprising is what has not changed. We still attract young athletes who are willing to push themselves and try new things. We still do the funky chicken dance, cook great healthy muffins, do the jello drop, hike up to the top of the Green Mountains, mtn bike, rip the Berg Und Tal, and crank out lots and lots of tuck jumps!
Please check in daily during camp for updates and pictures of the kids. When camp is not in session, check in monthly to see what Kelley and I are up to. Whether it is hosting a TV show, commentating at the World Cup races in Beaver Creek, or running another marathon or triathlon, we are usually pushing our limits, not only to improve own level of fitness and well-being, but to keep up with all the campers every summer too!
Thanks for being part of ELITEAM,
Doug Lewis
