GMVS Junior Program Announces Leadership Changes: Welcoming Megan Mikell as New Director

Featured Image: New Junior Program Director, Megan Mikell. Credit: GMVS

Waitsfield, VT – May 22, 2024 – Green Mountain Valley School (GMVS) is excited to announce a transition in the leadership of its Junior Race Program. Program Director Lorant Gudasz and Assistant Director Sally Utter have both decided to pursue new opportunities, marking an opportunity for new leadership of the Junior Program. 

Sally Utter ‘87, a lifelong Gumby, has dedicated her career to instilling a love of skiing in young athletes. Her vision and leadership have made GMVS a leader among development clubs nationwide. Sally’s influence extends beyond the slopes, helping shape compassionate and resilient individuals. GMVS is grateful for her years of service and she will be greatly missed.

Lorant Gudasz, who has worked alongside Sally for the past three years while also supporting GMVS’s strength and conditioning program, will be returning to Mt. Mansfield Academy. His passion and enthusiasm will be greatly missed, and we wish him continued success at MMA.

In light of these departures, we are thrilled to announce that Megan Mikell will be stepping into the role of Junior Program Director. Megan, a longstanding member of the GMVS coaching staff, has dedicated 15 years to working in a myriad of positions, most notably with U14 and U16 athletes, as well as coaching our boys’ soccer team. Her extensive experience, exceptional skills, and unwavering commitment make her the ideal leader for this new chapter. Megan loves working with kids, excels at connecting with them, and inspires them to reach their full potential, all while wholeheartedly believing in GMVS.

“Megan’s strengths in communication, scheduling, and delegation have been instrumental in the smooth operation of our programs.” States Jeff Lackie, GMVS Alpine Program Director. “Her ability to clearly articulate goals and expectations ensures that everyone is aligned and working towards common objectives. As a master scheduler, Megan efficiently manages time and resources, fostering a collaborative environment where all team members can contribute their strengths. Her willingness to tackle challenging tasks and her advocacy for coach education have driven significant advancements at GMVS.”

GMVS is confident that Megan’s leadership will bring continued success to the Junior Program. For more information about the GMVS Junior Race Program, click HERE . Registration for the 2024-2025 season is expected to open by mid-June. 

The GMVS Junior Program offers 6-days of training a week, which starts in early December and runs through the end of March. Athletes are exposed to the positive aspects of competition, the value of setting and pursuing goals, and the benefits of hard work. With age-appropriate programming focused on skill development and race technique in an environment that takes advantage of the world-class terrain at Sugarbush Resort, the program includes a healthy combination of free-skiing and gate training.

As is typical each year, GMVS will be seeking coaches for the Junior Race Program. If you have a background in ski racing and a passion for coaching young racers, we want to hear from you. Email Megan Mikell (mmikell@gmvs.org) with your letter of interest and resume.