Many people complain about the harsh winters that New Englanders must endure. Some down right hate it. Many students tend to hide from physical activity and the brutal cold by staying indoors cuddled up with video games and TV. While that may be one way to beat the cold, some students like to take a more active approach. They bundle up in the cold and snowboard down a snow-covered mountain.

The snowboard club, now in its second year, enables students to get involved with a school club, while also enjoying what the winter has to offer. The club provides eight trips for twenty eight. "Basically, every Wednesday we hop on a bus that takes us to Wachusett and we get to ride," said junior Geoff Parke, who has been a member of the club for the past two years.

All that is required for snowboard club is equipment and the desire to ride. The ability levels of the members are all very different. "The skill levels in the club go from extremely good to beginner," said Parke.

The members are happy with the resort that they ride on. "It's a good mountain for night skiing and is one of the better mountains in the area," said junior Lauren Rusczek. This winter there hasn't been much snow but the club is making due with what they have. "The conditions haven't been very good," said Rusczek, "but with the colder temperatures there has been more production of snow on the mountains. So, the conditions are getting better."

Along with their love for snowboarding the members of the club find a lot of pleasure in each other’s company. "It's a really carefree attitude," said Rusczek. "Everyone gets along with each other." Rusczek has also made some lasting friendships. "It's a good way to meet people," she said.

Being out on the slopes with all different types of boarders, the members are constantly improving. "I've gained a lot of experience. I've been learning a lot from some of the other riders over the last few weeks," said Rusczek.

The students play a large role in the organization of the club. However, none of it could be done without the club’s advisor, teacher Bob Melnick. "Mr. Melnick is a really cool advisor,” said Ruszeck. "He gets along with all the kids and is really funny." Along with being a nice guy, Melnick is also a talented snowboarder. "He is really good at it [snowboarding]. I can tell he likes doing it," said Ruszeck.

Brendan Cyr, also a junior who is in the club feels that it is well worth the commitment. "It is absolutely worth it, this club is fantastic," said Cyr. His advice for non-club members who aren't sure about joining: "do it, it is one of the most fun experiences I've had in high school."