The Oswego Ski and Snowboard Club will almost literally move mountains to bring the winter sports experience to campus via the annual Rail Jam from 1 to 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 18.
During that time, the academic quad on campus comes alive with skiers and snowboarders doing runs and tricks, with any student welcome to participate.
“For many people, their idea of skiing is on a big mountain, but we’re bringing that experience right to them,” said Kyle Hansen, president of the Oswego Ski and Snowboard Club.
Putting together a big mound of snow in front of Lanigan Hall and grooming it allows people to “see something unusual they don’t normally see on campus,” said Joe Dolan, the club’s treasurer. “It’s a good introduction to our club as well.”
The event falls during the Winter Olympics this year, bringing some aspects of that international spectacle to Oswego -– but in a way that emphasizes fun over competition, even though there will be some prizes.
“It’s a very low-key event, not a high-level competition by any means to scare people away from it,” said Quinn Ames, the club’s vice president. “I think Rail Jam is a great opportunity to just enjoy. Everyone is welcome.”
Cletus Tepas, the club’s secretary, noted that Rail Jam also provides something fun on a Friday whether people put on gear or not.
“We’re trying to make it more of a community event,” Tepas said. “WNYO will be playing live music. People who are going to and from class can stop by and watch.”
Participants would need to have their own skis, snowboards and other gear –- or need to borrow it –- and helmets are required. Students of any skill level can email skicluboswego@gmail.com to register.
“It’s going to be really cool,” Ames said. “We’ve contacted local companies and will have prizes from them. We’ve done a lot this year to branch out to people who might want to get involved. I feel like this is going to be a special year for it.