We now will spotlight state champion Sam Roy of Wisdom High School. Sam won the 2022 Class B Giant Slalom at Saddelback Mtn. We asked him about the course
conditions and his goals for the season.
1. What were your preparations leading up to the state meet? I feel like I had two important preparations leading up to States. First of all, skiing as much as I could and I made sure every run that I did I was focused on my skiing technique. My second preparation was making sure my skis were tuned well. I knew it was going to be very icy at Saddleback so I made sure my skis were extra sharp.
2. How did you deal with the pressure and emotions that come along with competing in a state meet? I dealt with pressure and emotions by being with my teammates. It is nice to be with teammates because in ski racing all you can think about is the race you are going to be doing. For me when I am with teammates and talking it helps to get your mind off the race.
3. What was going through your mind at the start knowing that the snow conditions were challenging? At the start I didn't really think about the conditions. Instead, I was thinking about the course and picturing what a good run would look like in it. In my head, I knew that the conditions were nothing I haven't seen before.
4. What are some of your best memories from ski racing this past season? Some of my best memories from this past season of course include states. Outside of states though I've made some great memories with the team. At the time it didn't sound like the best idea that we were standing in -20 degree weather just wearing a speed suit. But honestly, those are where the best memories are made.
5. If you are a senior, what are your plans for next year? I'm not sure what my plans are for next year. Right now though my top pick is skiing at UMaine Farmington.
6. What were your goals for this season and did you achieve them? What led to all of your success? My goals for this season were to have fun and do good at states. I did achieve both of these goals and what led to my success is not losing focus. I am very happy with how my senior season turned out and excited to figure out what's next!