Meet the Ten Alaskan Skiers on the U.S. Cross Country Ski Team

In an exciting announcement, ten talented skiers with connections to Alaska have been selected for the 2024-25 Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team, showcasing the state's rich talent pool.

Headliners from Alaska

Rosie Brennan, a member of the APU Elite Team, leads the charge as a prominent figure on the American World Cup team. She is joined on the women’s A Team by Jessie Diggins and her APU teammate, Novie McCabe, who has secured a spot on the B Team.

Gus Schumacher, hailing from Anchorage, made headlines last year as the first American man in over four decades to clinch a World Cup distance event. This season marks his debut on the men’s A Team. Alongside him is JC Schoonmaker, his APU Elite teammate and former collegiate skier at UAA.

Strong Representation on the Men’s B Team

The men’s B Team features a robust lineup of Anchorage-based skiers: Michael Earnhart, Luke Jager, and Zanden McMullen, all of whom are training with the APU Elite Team.

Enthusiasm for the Upcoming Season

“This team enters the 2024-25 season with great confidence,” expressed Chris Grover, program director of the Stifel U.S. Cross Country Ski Team. He emphasized the remarkable synergy between the seasoned women’s team and the emerging talent from the men’s side. “Our World Cup service program continues to provide incredible experience and depth, guiding U.S. athletes towards historic milestones. The cross-country community is more energized and dedicated than ever before.”

Development Team Highlights

The men’s Development Team also welcomes two more Anchorage athletes: Murphy Kimball, a freshman at UAA, and Derek ‘Buster’ Richardson, who competes with APU.

Additionally, Kendall Kramer, a multisport athlete from Fairbanks, has earned a spot on the women’s Development Team.

Brennan, a two-time Olympic participant, is joined by Olympians Schoonmaker, Jager, and McCabe, all of whom bring a wealth of experience to the team.