February 17, 2026 — With winter settling into campus, the Marist Ski Team wrapped up a dominant alpine racing season across the Northeast — one defined by podium finishes, team titles, and a culture built on camaraderie.

From division races in New York and Vermont to regional competition in Maine, the Red Foxes didn’t just embrace winter this year — they owned it.

A Bond Like No Other

The Marist Ski Team competes in alpine racing events, including slalom and giant slalom (GS). As part of the McBrien division of the United States Collegiate Ski and Snowboard Association (USCSA), members train, travel, and compete together throughout the winter season.

Before the start of the season, the team hosts tryouts to bring in new recruits. Whether they have racing experience or not, students can try out as long as they’re willing to learn and are enthusiastic about the team.

“I tell anyone who’s looking to try out, don’t be afraid if you haven’t raced before,” said Connor Lynch ’26, president of the team. “Much like myself, you have lots of opportunities to grow. We’re one big family, and we hope that continues when myself and others from this year graduate.”

 
The ski team dressed as Smurfs for their costume race. Photo by Laura Lynch.

“Trying out for the ski team has truly been the best decision,” said Brooke Crutchfield ’29, first-time racer and new recruit. “I’ve grown as both an athlete and teammate.”

Despite different majors and schedules, the mountain turns first-time racers and seasoned skiers into one family.

Cheering Up the Mountain for Griffin Barrows ’26

Griffin Barrows ’26 completes his final GS race. Photo by Laura Lynch.

Griffin has been a member of the ski team since his first year at Marist. Joining the team marked the start of his racing career, though he began skiing at 7. Growing up in Delaware, he had to travel far to reach the nearest slopes.

With plans to study abroad and graduate a semester early, Griffin’s collegiate racing career came to an early close. He was able to attend two races this season before shipping off to Florence, Italy.

During his final race, his teammates gathered at the finish line, ready to celebrate. Cheering loudly, Griffin could hear them halfway up the mountain.

“The ski team is wholly unique in that we all have a bond beyond friendship, as we are more of a reliable family,” said Griffin. “I will forever cherish it because it represents an integral part of my college experience.”

Carving a Path to Regionals

 
Ben Cook ’26 tears through a slalom course. Photo by Laura Lynch.

Despite many members not having raced before college, the team yields incredible results.

The group closed out its final GS race of the season on a strong note, with Ben Cook ’26 and Henry Merli ’26 making the podium for the men. On the women’s side, Kelsey Callahan ’29 took first place, while three teammates also finished in the top 15 skiers: Lucia Kennedy ’27, Olivia D'Arcangelo ’27, and Elise McCleneghen ’28.

Throughout the season, Kelsey and Ben dominated the competition. Kelsey finished first in seven of nine races and second in the other two. Ben earned podium finishes in eight races.

The male racers were especially strong this year, with ten of the twelve finishing in the top 15 at least once. At Gore Mountain, eight of them claimed more than half of the top 15 slalom spots.

Within the division, eleven schools across the Northeast compete. The top 15 racers in each event earn points towards their team’s overall score. These totals determine which teams qualify for regionals, with only the top two advancing.

 
The team holds their awards on the left. Ben holds his trophy above his head on the right. Photos by Lucia Kennedy ’27 and Tori Hegenauer ‘27/Marist University.

The men and women both took first in the division this year. Individually, four men and three women placed in the top 15 overall, with Ben finishing second and Kelsey taking first against other schools.

Henry received the Service Excellence Award, given to the athlete who helps the McBrien crew the most. Lucia received the Sara Grayson Memorial Award, given to the athlete who best demonstrates spirit, character, and commitment to the division. The award commemorates Sara Grayson, a McBrien racer whose impact continues to inspire the community.

The team collectively earned the Bigelow Bowl for the second year in a row, awarded to the college that displays the best sportsmanship, passion, and love for the sport.

“The Bigelow Bowl is more than just an award, it represents the heart of our division,” said Ben. “Earning the Bigelow Bowl means that our commitment to one another and to skiing hasn’t gone unnoticed.”