⚡️ Rapid Fire

• If you could compete at the winter Olympics in a different discipline, what would it be? Short Track Speed Skating
• Shout out to ___? My Husband
• Favorite training snack: Maple Syrup
• Your biggest cheerleader: My Parents
• Favorite Skida print: Strawberry Fields 
• Favorite Skida product: Snow Tour or Brim Hat
• Favorite place to ski? Dolomites 
• Go-to rest day activity: Binge watching Netflix
• Your special trick for staying warm:  Don’t stop moving!

On the Olympics:

When did the Olympics first become a goal for you?

When I was 7 watching the 2002 Salt Lake Olympics.

Are there any athletes in particular that inspired you to dream of becoming an Olympian? If so, what about them stood out to you?

Bode Miller was a huge inspiration, I  liked the way that he always skied at 110% and pushed the limits of the sport. 

What does competing in the Olympics mean to you personally?

Competing in the Olympics is a huge honor. It is not just about representing myself- It’s about representing everyone who has supported me on my journey (which is a huge number of people).

Has your perspective on competition or skiing changed as you've gotten closer to the Games?

For me, the games are just another ski race. It sounds a little crazy to say but I think the more you change your perspective on a single race, the scarier it becomes. 

What advice would you give to younger athletes who dream of making it to the Olympics?

Dream bigger, I think if you talk to any Olympian they would tell you that anything is possible. One step at a time.

On the Milan-Cortina Games:

Describe a particular moment at the Games you’re dreaming about (e.g., walking in the opening ceremony, competing in a specific event, sharing the moment with teammates, etc.)

Ever since the last Olympics, I’ve been dreaming about that feeling of walking through the tunnel at the opening ceremony. It was truly indescribable; such a mix of pride, joy, and awe. I would love to experience that moment again. 

What are your sport related goals for the Games? What are your non-sport-related goals for the Games?

To compete at my highest level through all of my events, and take in all the small and large experiences with an open heart. Be grateful for the opportunity if I qualify. 

What other athletes are you rooting for most during this Olympic season?

As a teammate. I’m always rooting for our whole team to do their very best, but I especially love watching Jessie Diggins compete. The way she leaves everything out on the course is so inspiring. 

What are you most looking forward to about the Olympic experience—both on and off the snow?

Looking forward to watching all the other events in all of the different locations. AND the Opening Ceremonies.

What do you hope young skiers or fans watching back home take away from your journey to the Games?

I hope they see that everyone’s journey to the games is different. There is no perfect storyline or set of rules you have to follow-its okay to get there your own way.

Helmets Off

What do you do to bring yourself joy during a big training block or during stressful parts of the season?

As a team we play a lot of games, at dryland and after dinner. This helps to keep things light and fun.

Are there any mental strategies you rely on when things get tough? If so, what are they?

Maybe less strategies and more relying on my friends, family, and community to remind me that ski racing is just a piece of my life.

How do you prepare to perform on race day? Do you have any rituals, lucky objects, or superstitions?

No superstitions but as the season goes there are definitely certain neckies I prefer to compete in. Like most athletes, I try to get a good night's sleep and fuel properly through the day ( with yummy snacks)!

If you had to sum up your approach to this Olympic year in three words, what would they be?

Trust your prep.

A Few More Q's:

You’ve mentioned before that joining the UVM ski team helped you rediscover your love of skiing after a tough season. What about being on a team motivates you?

I think the aspect of not just competing for yourself makes you more accountable. That you need to show up and perform every race because the whole team is counting on you to do your best- that is what makes college skiing so unique.

The women’s tech team seems like a tight group. What’s one behind-the-scenes moment from this season that made you feel especially proud of the group?

I think every race is an incredible example of how unique the women's tech team is. We all show up to support each other no matter our personal result. 

You seem cool under pressure—what’s your mindset in the start gate, especially in high-stakes races?

I try to stay as calm as possible, though there is always pressure at every start gate. I focus on things I can control, like reminding myself of coaching cues that bring out my best skiing. Having Ryan at the start gate with me is also a huge help- he’s usually a calming presence. 

You’re known for being fierce on course and laid-back off it. What’s your go-to way to decompress after a big race or training block?

I like to try and get outside of the ski racing world if time allows it. I think coming home or traveling to a new city allows you to disconnect from the craziness of the sport. 

Is there anything from your Minnesota roots—family traditions, food, mindset—that still shows up in your racing today?

I’m lucky to be from Minnesota and to have such supportive parents. They’ve always reminded me that  accomplishments are important, but they don’t define who you are- something that still guides me today. 

After leaving Minnesota, you’ve spent most of your time in New England. What about the northeast keeps you around?

Everything! For me, it is the people- I’m surrounded by an incredible community that supports me as an athlete, but at the same time doesn’t care that I’m an Olympian. That balance keeps me grounded.

Thanks, Paula! We can't wait to cheer you on this season!