Men’s Skiing Overview

As a sport, most people believe skiing began in Scandinavia, however, it may have its origins in ancient China about 10,000 years ago.  Modern skiing was developed in what is now Norway.  Originally skiing used only one pole.  Two poles became popular in the 1700’s.

Skiing had a variety of options, including Alpine, Nordic, and Jumping.  The names may have changed over time.  Alpine was once known in high school sports as downhill.  Nordic skiing was called cross country skiing. 

Skiing at the high school level included all three of these at one time.  Jumping is currently not a part of the skiing competition at the Minnesota State High School League. 

The first skiing competition in Minneapolis took place during the 1937-1938 school year.