U.S. Telemark team announced

The U.S. Telemark Ski Association recently announced the 17 members of the national team for the 2009-2010 season.

Four time National Champion Kelsey Schmid-Sommer, of Whitefish, and silver medalist at the Junior World Champions, Lorin Paley, from Steamboat Springs, Colo., make up the women's "A" Team.

They both finished the season extremely strong last season with the National Championship decided by a margin of two seconds over four events. Both women are working towards the goal a World Cup podium spot next season.

The men's A Team will be led by Drew Hauser, the 2009 National Champion and Junior World Champion, from Silverthorne Colo. Also returning to the team are Shane Anderson and Peter McMahon, top-10 finishes on the World Cup circuit last season. Eric Lamb, of Whitefish, will be returning to the A team.

Ben Paley, who finished last season in third place overall at the National Championships, has moved up from the B team to the A team. Charlie Dresen has returned to the team after a six-year break. He raced to several top-10 World Cup finishes during his previous tenure.

Members of the national team raise their own funds to travel and compete, and many of them train on their own without a coach. Those fortunate enough to live in Steamboat Springs are able to train with the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, where team members Shane Anderson and Ken Recker are coaches.

"I believe that USTSA is fielding one of the strongest teams we've had in recent years, with the quality and experience of our veteran racers and the strong development of our younger racers. I am excited to see the results this next season", said USTSA president Russ Hobbs, of Whitefish.

More information about the United States Telemark Ski Association can be found online at www.ustsa.org.