One of the greatest aspects of Wayne Valley that students, staff, and families take pride in is our athletic programs. Whether it is the countless state championship banners that shine across the gym, the packed crowds for all of the biggest games, or the town coming together for something greater than sports, such as the annual Rocco Sivoella game, the legacy that athletes leave behind in Wayne Valley High School can never be forgotten. Today, we are in the midst of two dedicated athletes: a sibling duo that dominates the ski slopes for their respective teams. Chloe and Colin Krawczak have both played tremendous roles in catapulting their teams to victories, as the two have consistently won races to place themselves in the top 10 overall as the best skiers in New Jersey. Together, Chloe and Colin Krawczak embody what it means to be a Wayne Valley Athlete.
For the Krawczak family, skiing has always been a family activity. “I started skiing when I was less than two years old, so starting ski racing when I was in 5th grade came easily to me,” remarked Colin with a smile. “I slowly started getting the hang of the technique required, and I went through a few big moments where it really clicked for me. Over the last three years in high school, something always stops me from reaching my goals, whether it be injury or an unlucky race, but I set them higher every year, so it always keeps me pushing to be my best.” Another important facet to note about the two siblings is that they took different paths toward skiing, yet both led them to their respective successes. “While Colin and I began skiing at roughly the same age, I only started racing on the high school team my freshman year at Wayne Valley, and I joined a club team a year after that,” noted Chloe. “I’ve stuck around because I love to see how much I can improve in such small seasons (which typically last from the end of December to the beginning of March), and I love racing with both my club and high school team.” The sibling duo’s respective paths to success are a reminder that sports are meant to be fun, and success is not always granted to the earliest starters, but to those who enjoy the practice and preparation every single day.
However, the Krawczaks attribute their success to one dominant factor: their relentless work ethic. When asked about her tremendous dedication to skiing, Chloe explained, “While I may not have as many years of experience as my brother, we’re pretty much on the same level now, with me being 6th in the state and him in 7th. We train almost every day between January and February, so the work definitely adds up. Being coachable is also really important, considering I started late in this sport. I think the only way I was able to catch up to other racers with 4-6 more years of experience was because I am willing to listen and ask coaches for advice during every training session.” Alongside their commitment and dedication, which have driven their success and top 10 rankings, both Chloe and Colin have maintained their success through their strong mentalities. “Relying on motivation for me has never worked out, so focusing on consistency worked best,” commented Colin. “I always put in as much effort as I can, I’m always open to suggestions from coaches and people who are better than me because I’m always trying to reach the top, and the main reason I think I perform so well is because I always know I can, so there isn’t anyone I know I can’t beat with a little bit of luck.”
Although the pressure of skiing can weigh heavily on the Krawczaks as the team’s success relies on their
performances, Colin and Chloe never forget about the joy the sport brings them. “We have such a funny group, and one of my favorite things we do is catch each other napping on the bus and posting it to Instagram. We also have a team mascot who is named The Flying Dutchman,” exclaimed Chloe. “Our high school racing team has definitely evolved over the four years I’ve been on it, and this year I love how we all work together.” Colin also chipped in, claiming one of his favorite parts of skiing is the time he gets to spend with his teammates: “Teammates are always that little ‘cherry on top’ whenever I’m racing. There’s never a bad day with this group of guys and girls, and they’re always supportive and incredibly funny. While we may not have finished too high in the standings this year, Wayne Valley ski racing is one of the best groups of people I know.”
As the ski racing season comes to a close, Senior Captain Chloe Krawczak and her four teammates will graduate. This will leave the door open for many newcomers to join the girls’ ski racing team and continue the legacy the five seniors left. They are graduating from the program carrying countless lifelong friendships, lessons, and memories given during their skiing careers. As for Junior Captain Colin Krawczak, he will return for his senior year to continue his legacy with quicker times, high position finishes, and leadership skills that will nurture the team to its best possible version.
If you are interested in joining the ski racing team for the 2026-2027 season, email Coach Wiley at [email protected] for more information!
Wayne Valley Ski Racing Team on Instagram, @waynevalleyskiteam