KMS builds a base for success in young student-athletes

Rolf Gidlow, a veteran alpine coach, has worked with athletes at every age level, including years of work with FIS racers. At this stage in his career, Gidlow has come to realize how critical strong coaching is at the U14 level, and is excited to make a lasting impact on the future of Killington Mountain School in his new role as the head U14 alpine coach. Gidlow carries with him over 46 years of professional ski coaching experience, having consistently coached some of the top academy athletes on the circuit. As a result, he both understands the highest level of competition but also the critical nature of skill acquisition at young ages.

Originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota, Gidlow grew up ski racing and ultimately coaching at a small mountain there, where his father, a Swedish ski racer, ran a small ski team and brought Gidlow on board to help coach the young athletes. He continued working with his father and the team during his time at the University of Minnesota, where he was a music major, focusing on piano performance and music theory.

After college, Gidlow remained in Minnesota for 17 years where he was a performing musician in addition to continuing his tenure as a ski coach. Thirty years ago, he came east when his passion for skiing overtook his passion for music, and he wanted to work at higher level within the coaching industry.

“I am very excited to have Rolf join our staff,” shared Alpine Program Director Tom Sell. “He brings an incredible depth of knowledge and expertise to our U14 group. It is fantastic to have someone with his background working with our young athletes. In our conversations this spring, Rolf told me that he wants to help develop athletes with the ability to truly fulfill their potential, and that working with the U14 group is where he can have the most impact.”

Gidlow shared on his eagerness to work with the U14s.

“It’s an important age group, and we need to pay more attention to athletes at this level as part of our development system; the foundation is key,” he explained. “I observed this when working with older racers. If they don’t have it by the time they are 16, they won’t have it when they get older. There’s so much emphasis and importance placed on athletes at older ages, but almost all ski racers get into sport through participation at the club level so starting them off right is crucial.”

Gidlow will be moving to Londonderry this summer, and is eager to being working with KMS athletes and getting to know them and their families.

Release courtesy of Killington Mountain School