Virginia Tech Alpine Ski Club brings avalanche of wins at Southeast Conference
The Alpine Ski Men’s Team won first place, the Women’s Team won third place, and 11 racers placed in the top 20 at the annual ski conference.
After a fiercely competitive season, the Virginia Tech Alpine Ski Club men’s team took home first place at the 2025 Southeast Conference. The women’s team won third place, and 11 team members across both teams placed in the top 20 in individual rankings with four placing in the top 10.
“I’m incredibly proud of the team this year for our accomplishments both on and off the racecourse,” said Pierce Hamlin, president of the Alpine Ski Club. “Our athletes gave it their all, showcasing not only their skill but also their resilience and competitive spirit. The conference was especially competitive this year, but despite the tough field, our team achieved some of our best results in years.”
The annual Southeast Conference of the U.S. Collegiate Ski and Snowboard Association includes competitors from Virginia, North Carolina, West Virginia, Georgia, Florida, and Washington D.C. This year’s conference featured 10 days of regular season races between Jan. 19 and Feb. 16 at Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain, Bryce Resort, and Massanutten Resort. Conference rankings are based on total points across all races.
Individual rankings
Men's team:
- Theo Hwang, second place
- Pierce Hamlin, fourth place
- Jake Wierer, seventh place
- Sebastian Franks, 11th place
- Ethan Burt, 15th place
- Mark Minsch, 16th place
- Ben Lockitt, 19th place
Women's team:
- Charlotte Helson, eighth place
- Julia Gregory, 13th place
- Ava Howard, 15th place
- Bella Andrade, 19th place
Becoming the competition
Hamlin said the club’s hard work, dedication, and camaraderie contributed to the successes at the conference.
“We push each other to improve, celebrate each other’s victories, and foster a supportive environment,” he said.
In preparation for this year’s season, club management expanded training opportunities. Hamlin said this helped racers feel more confident and prepared.
Charlotte Helson competing at regionals this year. Photo courtesy of Pierce Hamlin.
Pierce Hamlin in his first year of racing with the Virginia Tech Alpine Ski Club. Photo courtesy of Pierce Hamlin.
Sebastian Franks, vice president of the club, said the teams are focused on remaining competitive in the Southeast Conference and setting their sights on nationals.
“Moving forward, our main goal is to continue providing our athletes with every opportunity to grow, improve, and introduce new members to the sport we’re so passionate about,” he said.
As many current racers will graduate this year, recruiting and developing new athletes is another key focus for the club. Skiers of all experience levels are encouraged to try out.
“One aspect of our team we find unique and are very proud of is our ability to bring in skiers who haven’t raced before and turn them into highly competitive racers,” said Franks.
Ethan Burt, a senior who earned a podium finish at one of the regular season races, had never competed before joining the team. His performance helped push the men’s team to its first-place finish in the conference.
“Even though I had never ski raced before college, the other members fostered an environment where I was able to be myself, learn new things and add to my strong skiing foundation,” Burt said. “I was fortunate to join a team of knowledgeable, dedicated, and personable people. Over the last few years, their advice and guidance played a crucial role in refining my skills and mindset into what they are today.”
The Alpine Ski Club's graduating seniors after their last race at regionals this year. Photo courtesy of Pierce Hamlin.
Members of the Alpine Ski Club at Beech Mountain. Photo courtesy of Pierce Hamlin.
Members of the Alpine Ski Club during a practice at Jay Peak Resort. Photo courtesy of Pierce Hamlin.
The Virginia Tech Alpine Ski Club has been active since 1981. The club is open to all levels of ski experience. The club does dry-land outdoor training during the fall semester on the Drillfield and in Lane Stadium. In winter, the club trains at Winterplace Ski Resort in Beckley, West Virginia, and does a week of training at Jay Peak, Vermont, at the end of winter break. Members compete in races in Virginia and North Carolina during the regular season.
To learn more about the Alpine Ski Team, visit the website or find them on Instagram at @vtalpineski.
The Virginia Tech Sport Clubs Program is supported by Recreational Sports.
