Ben Buck has been honored as the 2026 Nordic Co-Coach of the Year by the Intercollegiate Ski Coaches Association (ISCA), sharing the accolade with Alaska Anchorage's Trond Flagstad. Buck's recognition comes following a successful season where the Alaska Nanooks improved significantly at the NCAA Skiing Championships, finishing 10th overall and third in Nordic events. His leadership was a key factor in this growth, alongside commendable performances from athletes like Rosie Fordham, who secured two national championships.

By the Numbers
  • Alaska Nanooks scored 205.5 points at the 2026 NCAA Nordic Championships, a 29.5-point increase from 176 points in 2025.
  • The team finished 10th overall at the NCAA Championships, with a third-place finish in Nordic and two individual national titles won by Rosie Fordham.
Yes, But

While Buck鈥檚 achievement highlights the team's progress, some may argue that success is also dependent on the existing program's foundation laid by previous coaches. The disparity in the level of competition between programs within Alaska could suggest that measurable improvement might reflect broader trends rather than solely individual coaching effectiveness.

State of Play
  • The Alaska Nanooks are currently recognized for their competitive success in collegiate skiing, especially in Nordic events.
  • Buck's leadership marks a pivotal moment in the program's history during his inaugural full-time season as head coach.
What's Next

The Nanooks will aim to build on this momentum as they prepare for next season, looking to retain their top standings at upcoming competitions, including the Alaska Nordic Cup where Buck anticipates renewed rivalry with Alaska Anchorage.

Bottom Line

Ben Buck's recognition as Nordic Co-Coach of the Year underscores the potential for growth within the Nanooks program, demonstrating not just individual talent but also the importance of coaching cohesion and collaborative effort in achieving athletic success.