By David Reed
Caitlin Croft, a well-known figure in Ellicottville, has been promoted to Assistant Development Director of the New York State Ski Racing Association (NYSSRA). This exciting development recognizes her dedication and hard work in promoting ski racing in New York State.
As a leader in community development, Caitlin’s passion for ski racing and community development has been evident throughout her career. Most recently she was the Lead Coach of the U18/16/FIS Alpine Team at HoliMont along with serving as the Chair of the NYSSRA Development Committee. Caitlin has played a crucial role in nurturing young athletes and fostering a love for the sport starting her coaching career at Holiday Valley working first with the younger athletes then slowly moving up the proverbial racing hierarchy. Caitlin has mentored numerous athletes to State, Eastern and National Level competitions.
“One of my favorite moments was getting a call from a local athlete Laz Rifkin that he’d just won the Francis Piche U12 race at Gunstock in New Hampshire. I wasn’t high enough in the ranks at the time to attend a race of that caliber. Rifkin had been out the previous two seasons due to injuries and it was a proud moment to witness the hard work of an athlete pay off. This is an incredibly rewarding sport and teaches you the most valuable lessons of resilience and adaptability. To watch these lessons play out for athletes year after year is truly an honor.”
to Assistant Development
Director of New York
State Ski Racing Association.
As Assistant Development Director, Caitlin aims to drive the growth of ski racing in New York State. Her focus will be on assisting the Development Director, Stephen Mergenthaler of Lake Placid. She will spearhead more state representation in the Western and Central District. By working closely with coaches, clubs and community leaders, Caitlin seeks to create a thriving ski racing ecosystem that benefits the entire state.
Beyond her professional achievements, Caitlin is a dedicated community member. She serves on the Village Board of Trustees and the Town Planning Board, demonstrating her commitment to local governance. She also is the director of the Ellicottville Farmers’ Market held in the summer months Friday evenings in front of the 1887 building. Her hobbies include dance of all kinds, most recently achieving the nod to get on pointe in her mid-thirties. Caitlin enjoys hiking, surfing and spending time reflecting her love for the outdoors.
“None of this would have happened without my amazing mentors, directors, friends and family that surround me. I am a mosaic of all the people that have influenced me over the years. I remember calling my dad thanking him for all he had done for me with this sport. His love and dedication to ski racing and more largely the entire ski world was instilled to me so young. There were many times I wanted to give up or walk away and he was always there to guide me back to my why. My why: There is no community like the one forged from skiing. There is nothing more freeing that sliding on snow; to me it will forever and always be the closest thing to human levitation. Fast is a feeling that everyone deserves to understand. Last, I would be remiss if I didn’t thank the snowboarding community for their contributions to the modern race ski. No matter what snowsport you love, getting out there with friends is 99% of it.”
Caitlin Croft’s promotion is a testament to her passion for ski racing and community development. As Assistant Development Director of NYSSRA, she is poised to make a lasting impact on the sport and the state. We wish her continued success in her new role!