Morgan Young was one of two recipients of the CCNWT Post-Secondary Grant recipient in the 2024-25 school year and ski season.
In his words, here’s how his season went:
This year marked my second ski season with Nipissing University and my second year receiving this post-secondary grant. I am very grateful to Cross Country NWT for the continued support – both through this grant and during my time with the Yellowknife High Performance Team.
Nipissing University, located in North Bay, Ontario, was recommended to me by former Yellowknife coaches who are alumni of the program. Our team became significantly younger this year, as many older skiers graduated or moved on from the program. Although the race season lasts only about three months, our team trains year-round. This includes dryland sessions in the strength and conditioning gym, as well as high-volume roller skiing.
We had a successful season, earning numerous Ontario Cup titles and narrowly missing third place overall at the Ontario University Championships (OUA) in Sault Ste. Marie. Our team also delivered a strong performance at the national championships in Canmore, Alberta. Individually, I was fortunate to win one of the Ontario Cup races on our home trails in North Bay and achieved new personal bests at both the OUA Championships and Nationals.
The grant has helped offset a lot of the costs that come with the sport, such as travel, equipment and race fees.
I am very grateful for the lessons and experiences that this year has brought. I’ve continued to strengthen friendships and build new ones through this amazing sport. I’m looking forward to what the next season will bring.