At the top of a Crystal Mountain, a group of skiers and snowboarders prepares to hit the slopes. They become one with the mountain, as they “shred the gnar” and “carve the pow.” The mountain is a haven, and their run allows them to be free. They are a different kind of people.

They are the Grand Valley State ski and snowboard club.

This isn’t your average club sport here at GVSU. This is a unique group of people, 46 members, that is bonded by a love of skiing and snowboarding down the powdered face of a mountain.

Senior snowboarder Brent Warren, president of the club, has noticed that the club is filled with a different kind of person.

“There is a certain type of mind that is attracted to skiing and snowboarding,” Warren said. “They are passionate people, and are some of the coolest people ever that get together with instant chemistry.”

This group of chill winter dwellers really takes advantage of the snowy season. Senior skier Kailey Rosema, vice president of the club, also sees how neat the ski and snowboard team really is with their mindset.

“People hate winter but we have fun and enjoy it,” Rosema said. “We all love winter.”

A lot of what goes on with the club happens before snow falls from the sky.

Fundraising is a huge part of the program’s operation. Prior to the start of the season, the team has an opportunity to bond by dressing up and working in a corn maze. This is one of their many ways to earn money for the club. This not only helps team chemistry, but also lowers the cost of dues.

The ski and snowboard club also separates the team by having corporate sponsorships on their shirts. They are chill from the sponsorship aspect, especially since Elevated Clothing is their main product donation sponsor this year.

As mentioned, there is a level of passion that resonates within the hearts and souls of the skiers and snowboarders. Callie Higgins, a senior skier, seems to agree.

“When I’m skiing, it’s just me and the mountain, and anything seems possible,” Higgins said.

Adding to the fun that surrounds the club is that this is a nice group of individuals. Higgins said a girl once told her how welcoming the group has been. They are always willing to help out with skiing tips, or simply to hang out.

“You are guaranteed a good time, just on the mountain and in general,” Higgins said. “You will form friendships in general and for a lifetime.”

The GVSU ski and snowboard team has five guaranteed races on their schedule this season. Its first four races are at Crystal Mountain, and the final race, the Midwest regional, will be at Marquette Mountain.

The ski and snowboard team competes in the United States Collegiate Snowsports Association (USCSA), a national group of competing clubs. Last year, the GVSU women’s snowboarding team won regionals.

On Saturdays, the team competes in slalom events before taking part in the giant slalom (GS) on Sundays. The slalom is a lot of quick turns, while the GS gives athletes more time to make decisions and gather more speed.

For GVSU, there is plenty of excitement about the upcoming season.

“We have a good season outlook,” Rosema said. “We have great racing and skiing experience, so we will see how we do this weekend.”

This experience is found not only in the ski and snowboard veterans, but also in some of the newcomers.

“Our young and old guys have skied all through high school and around the U.S.,” Warren said. “Our new guys have a lot of experience.”

Warren also offered his own thoughts about being on fresh powder while snowboarding.

“It’s like you’re in a cloud, just floating,” he said.

At the top of Crystal Mountain, a group of skiers and snowboarders prepares to hit the slopes. They are a different kind of people. They are the GVSU ski and snowboard club — and they’ll see you at the bottom of the mountain.