SkillsQuest Fitness Testing: Big Dogs Go All Out
As a U.S. Ski & Snowboard High Performance Center, Carrabassett Valley Academy is committed to helping student-athletes reach their full potential, both on and off the snow. Each year, CVA athletes take part in two days of comprehensive physical testing.
One day is dedicated to the SkillsQuest Fitness Assessment, a nationally recognized program developed by U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s High Performance Department. Day two is focused on additional mobility and power testing utilizing tools like force plates.
SkillsQuest is a cornerstone of the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Training System, designed to motivate and reward athletes as they develop the key components of high performance. True to its name, it represents an ongoing journey toward excellence in competitive skiing and snowboarding—one built on mastering fundamental skills. The program encompasses a wide range of focus areas, including technical proficiency, conditioning, equipment preparation, performance psychology, and athlete management.
SkillsQuest is a cornerstone of the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Training System, designed to motivate and reward athletes as they develop the key components of high performance. True to its name, it represents an ongoing journey toward excellence in competitive skiing and snowboarding—one built on mastering fundamental skills. The program encompasses a wide range of focus areas, including technical proficiency, conditioning, equipment preparation, performance psychology, and athlete management.
The SkillsQuest Fitness Assessment evaluates an athlete’s speed, strength, power, agility, and endurance through a series of physical challenges such as the Beep Test, Broad Jump, Triple Broad Jump, Box Jump, 20m Sprint, Push-Ups, and Pull-Ups. Results are submitted to U.S. Ski & Snowboard for national benchmarking, allowing CVA athletes to see how they stack up against peers across the country. Beyond rankings, the data gives coaches and athletes a detailed look at physical strengths and growth areas—helping them set individualized goals that support long-term athletic development.
“The SkillsQuest testing isn’t just about data or rankings - it’s about bringing all of our athletes together in a shared pursuit of excellence,” said CVA Director of Sports Medicine & High Performance, Tristy Wolfe. “No matter their discipline, everyone is pushing their limits, supporting one another, and celebrating the effort it takes to improve.”
Testing culminates in the naming of CVA’s Top Dogs, recognizing the top three girls and boys in each age division with the highest overall SkillsQuest Fitness scores across all disciplines.
The 2025 CVA Top Dogs are:
Boys grades 10–12: Rocco Lazzaro ’26, Nick Klemperer ’27, Giancarlo Stien ’26
Boys grades 7–9: Curtis Dohan ’29, Jasper Eiermann ’29, Charlie Macleod ’30
Girls grades 10–12: Abby Manson ’26, Bridget Sapak ’26, Fynn Murray ’28
Girls grades 7–9: Merritt Cook ’29, Maddy Cannan ’29, Penny Riotte ’29
Postgraduates: Lily-Jane Sparkes ’25 & Mia Bruno ’25
Congratulations to all of our Top Dog award winners for their exceptional effort and athleticism. Every CVA student-athlete who participated demonstrated the strength, perseverance, and competitive spirit that define the Big Dog community.
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