AST Coach Journal: Gavin Preziosi
It’s hard to believe we’re nearing the end of February, time flies when you’re having fun and constantly on the move.
Given this platform, I’d like to take this time to recognize the athletes for their work and dedication to the ski team. It is incredible what this group of women have achieved on and off snow to date and every time I get a chance to reflect on the successes of the team, it inspires me to keep pushing to be better. To the athletes’ parents, thank you for your un-waivered support of your children and trust you’ve put in Jim and I and to the sponsors of the ski team and Alberta Alpine, none of this could happen without you.
To the up-and-coming ski racers in our community, this season more than any other has taught me some valuable lessons. Most importantly, keep focused on the process and know that what you may feel like is the biggest race of your life is only the next step along your path, so enjoy the moment, ski as fast as you can, take what you can from your experience and use it to propel you to be better at what will inevitably be the next biggest race of your life.
Secondly, embrace the infamous “grind!” Getting to the top of this sport requires countless hours, long days, and consecutive weeks that can turn into months of hard work. If you want to be the best, you need to get on that grind and know that over time it will not only make you a better ski racer but will also translate into an incredible trait of resilience that will benefit you in all aspects of life. The best victories in life are the ones you work extremely hard for.
Lastly, find time to breathe and reflect on what you’ve accomplished periodically, this sport comes at you fast, it’s important to recognize the small victories and celebrate the goals you’ve achieved along the way.
With that said, I’m off to Panorama for the World Junior Championships, keep your eyes on Team Canada, there are some extremely talented athletes representing your country and home province of Alberta including Kiki Alexander, Cassidy Gray, Britt Richardson and Logan Dunn!
