STOWE, VT ??” For the first time, Stowe Mountain Resort has established a team of resort-sponsored local athletes who will represent the ski area at winter and summer action sports competitions. This “Youth Team” is comprised of freestyle skiers and snowboarders, racers, and skateboarders. Area coaches and the resort??в„ўs marketing department selected the team of 12. The goal of the grass roots program is to build support for Stowe??в„ўs most promising local talent, and create a base of competitive young ambassadors who can promote their home-mountain at regional and national events.

“Stowe has been a breeding ground for internationally acclaimed skiers and snowboarders for over a half century. We want to recognize the outstanding young athletes who train in Stowe and aspire to be successful competitors in our industry,” says Jeff Wise, Stowe??в„ўs communications director and team organizer.

The Stowe Youth Team line-up for the 2004-2005 season is Tommy Emmanuelson, Tucker Spear and Kelsey Van Patten for snowboarding. Hannah Allen, Josh Bedard and Elliot Wilsenson-Ray for racing. Colby Adams, Ted Carrik, Ricky Hess and MC Waryas for new school skiing. Collin and Cody Hale will represent Stowe at summer skateboarding contests.