Marymount Academy (MMA) Regals made their mark at OFSAA Skiing, securing an impressive 6th place overall in the High School Girls’ Giant Slalom. Leading the charge, Kate Bouchard delivered a stellar performance, capturing gold in the Individual High School Girls’ Slalom, while teammate Alexys Wagemann also delivered a strong performance, finishing 15th overall.
Coach Dan Bartolucci had high hopes for his team this season, knowing they had the talent to compete at the highest level.
“Alexys is in her final year of high school and has skied better year after year,” said Bartolucci. “I was so proud to see her dominate at both the city championships and NOSSA, medaling in both and earning her place among the province’s best at OFSAA. That’s where she belongs. She is an incredible athlete.”
Bartolucci also praised Bouchard’s exceptional talent and leadership.
“The best part of helping to coach Kate is that I get a front-row seat and can just be a fan— and I am a big fan,” he said. “She is one of the smoothest, most naturally gifted technical skiers I have ever had the pleasure of coaching. I am so proud of her accomplishments this season and the leadership she has shown to our amazing Regals’ Ski Team.”
Though skiing is often seen as an individual sport, both athletes agreed that the camaraderie of competing as a team made the experience even more meaningful.
“When I placed gold at the end of my race, it was so awesome having my teammates there cheering me on,” said Bouchard. “You really have to cherish those moments. I’ll probably never forget that for the rest of my life because, in any high school sport, it’s your teammates who make those memories that you will remember 20 years from now.”
She added that the support extended beyond just their team.
“Even coaches from other schools cheer you on. When you reach OFSAA, it feels like they are cheering for Sudbury as a whole, so you are getting support from all angles,” she continued.
Wagemann echoed the sentiment, reflecting on the significance of the team’s success.
“I’m really proud of how our team finished. Everyone was so happy no matter how they placed,” she said. “Of course, I’ll remember the race and my placing, but what I will remember most are the memories I made with my friends.”
Now in her final year of high school sports, Wagemann had a piece of advice for future Regals competing at this level:
“It’s up to you to do your best, and no matter where you finish, remember that you still did amazing,” she said. “You made it to OFSAA. Even if you come dead last, you still made it there—and that’s an accomplishment.”
With a season full of achievements and unforgettable moments, the Regals have proven they are a force to be reckoned with on the slopes.
