“Exciting, community and fun” are three words used by student Jillian Drotoz to describe the Schoolcraft Edgerunners Ski and Snowboarding Club. Drotoz is the club president and aims to build a warm, welcoming community that fosters both passion for the
sport and love for the winter season.
Ironically, Drotoz says her motivation for starting the club stemmed from a dislike of winter weather. After witnessing how ski culture brought people together in a welcoming and supportive community, she felt that Schoolcraft deserved that same sense of connection. She believes the club gives students an opportunity to destress after a demanding week of classes while also doing something
positive for themselves.
The club centers its mission on building a community to help students push through the seasonal depression by giving them something exciting to look forward to, not only through the sport but also with the friendships formed along the way. Drotoz’s hope for the club is for it to not only be fun, but also inspirational. She believes learning teaches people not to fear falling but to embrace it as a part of the process. The ski community she says is one that celebrates those who get back up afterwards, dust themselves
off and try again.
“Failing at first is what makes you proud when you can do it with ease later,” said Drotoz.
While it can be frustrating at first, Drotoz believes that determination turns those early struggles into confidence and a strong sense of self-success. For her, it’s a sport that brings pride in what an individual is able to achieve through persistence.
Whether you are someone who is just as passionate about skiing or if you’re looking to start as a complete beginner, don’t worry. The Schoolcraft Edgerunners Ski and Snowboarding Club welcomes you to the slopes and a community that encourages everyone to
try something new.
If skiing or snowboarding is something you have been wanting to try, join the Edgerunner Ski Club on its next outing at Mt. Brighton scheduled for Thursday. Feb. 26 from 3-9 p.m. Students can purchase tickets for a discounted rate of $39 at the Student Activities Office
located in the Lower Level, Vistatech Center until Feb. 23 at 5 p.m. Tickets are normally priced at $85. Waivers must be filled out at the time of registration. The minimum number of participants at this price is 15. Rental gear is $12 but must be purchased when buying your
ticket in the Student Activities Office.
For more information about the trip or club, contact the Student Activities Office at 734-462-4422.
