51³Ô¹ÏÍø

University of North Georgia (51³Ô¹ÏÍø) associate professor of physical therapy Dr. Michael Polascik partnered with students as they founded a new club in fall 2022 at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø's Dahlonega Campus. Created with the intent of providing a space for outdoor snow activities, team-building and service to the community, the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Ski & Snowboard Club contains over 20 members in its inaugural year.

Polascik, originally from West Virginia and an avid snowboarder and is a current alpine ski patroller at Cataloochee Valley, shared he was surprised that 51³Ô¹ÏÍø didn't already have a club like this and wanted to promote the positive aspects of snow sports and increase campus awareness about these recreational activities which have positive health benefits.

"I've always believed if you're going to talk the talk, walk the walk. I'm investing in these students and we're all a team here," Polascik said. "It's a team effort to help create memorable experiences for our students, not just from an academic standpoint."

Club members took their inaugural trip to Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, in February.

"I'm super excited about our new club as our goal is to promote the positive aspects of snow sports. With an incredible turnout we had, I can't wait for the next trip," Wylie Baker, who is pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, said.

The club is open to students, faculty and staff to join, and its members are looking to provide an impact in Dahlonega and in the local community through service.