The recent New York State high school skiing championships saw remarkable performances from several promising athletes. Stella Van Arsdale of Scarsdale and Derrick Crivelli of Brewster notably earned medals in the Giant Slalom event, demonstrating their skill and perseverance on a demanding course. Their achievements underscore a season of dedication and intense competition, with fellow skiers also achieving significant placements and overcoming challenging conditions at Bristol Mountain.
State Skiing Crowns New Champions and Honors Returning Talents
On a chilly February 23, 2026, at Bristol Mountain in Canandaigua, the state skiing championships unfolded with thrilling displays of athleticism. Stella Van Arsdale, a formidable sophomore from Scarsdale, who had previously secured two top-ten finishes at the state level in 2024, once again showcased her prowess. The 2026 Section 1 girls' skimeister clinched an impressive fifth place in the Giant Slalom with a combined two-run time of 2:12.01, expressing immense satisfaction with her performance. Kirsten Matzky of Pittsford, Section 5, took home the gold in the girls' GS with a time of 2:06.31.
The boys' competition was equally gripping. Brewster freshman Derrick Crivelli, the Section 1 boys' skimeister, battled a notoriously difficult course to secure a sixth-place combined finish in the Giant Slalom, recording a time of 2:08.09. His victory was met with celebratory messages from his older siblings, Lucas and Mia, highlighting a touching family moment. Carson Cheney of Johnstown, Section 2, emerged as the boys' GS champion with a time of 2:02.58. The challenging conditions meant that only 37 of 63 boys and 43 of 63 girls managed to complete both required runs. Brynn Anthony, a senior from Fox Lane, also distinguished herself by earning an eighth-place medal with a time of 2:12.93, achieving her goal for her final state GS race. Other notable Section 1 girls who performed well included Mamaroneck's Sarah Krolicki (15th), John Jay-Cross River's Willow Lutz (16th), and Hen Hud's Rachel Budde (17th). For the boys, Irvington's Harrison Gredick placed 14th, with Alex Dudjak (Camel), Jack Mooney (Yorktown), and Chase Hamilton (Fox Lane) also securing top-20 finishes.
Inspiring Grit and Sportsmanship on the Slopes
The recent state skiing championships served as a powerful reminder of the spirit of dedication, resilience, and camaraderie within high school sports. The challenging course conditions, described by Derrick Crivelli as a 'rollercoaster' of soft powder and icy patches, tested every athlete's resolve. Yet, instead of deterring them, these obstacles highlighted their determination to push through and perform at their best. The mutual support among Section 1 skiers, with athletes like Stella Van Arsdale and Brynn Anthony cheering each other on despite being from different schools, exemplifies the true essence of sportsmanship. This event wasn't just about winning medals; it was about the personal growth, the unwavering fight against adversity, and the bonds forged on the slopes, inspiring us all to tackle our own challenges with similar courage and a supportive community.