McCall’s ski team story begins with a community that loved winter and wanted its children to have the chance to ski. Through generations of families, coaches and volunteers, that passion has helped young athletes find their confidence, build friendships and pursue their dreams.

1937 | A place to begin

The Little Ski Hill opened with help from local volunteers and the Civilian Conservation Corps, on land donated by Carl Brown. It became a gathering place for families and a starting point for generations of McCall skiers.

1941 | The Mighty Mites take shape

Lloyd Johnson founded the Mighty Mites youth racing group. Brown Lumber Company buses brought children to the hill, making regular training possible and helping establish McCall’s youth ski racing tradition.

1950s–1960s | Local skiers reach the world stage

Under the guidance of coaches including Corey Engen, McCall athletes began making their mark nationally and internationally. Mack Miller competed at the 1956 and 1960 Winter Olympics, while Frank Brown represented the United States in alpine skiing in 1960.

1961–1963 | New terrain, new opportunities

Brundage Mountain opened on Thanksgiving Day in 1961, expanding opportunities for local skiers. In February 1963, McCall’s Norman Zachary won the first Engen Cup races.

1968–1971 | Keeping the team skiing

When lift safety concerns temporarily closed the Little Ski Hill, the Mighty Mites continued training at Brundage. The hill reopened in 1971 with a new T-bar and grooming equipment secured through the ski club’s efforts.

1972 | From local slopes to Sapporo

Patty Boydstun represented the United States in slalom at the Sapporo Winter Olympics. She later returned to McCall to coach Mighty Mites and junior racers, sharing her experience with the next generation.

1976–1988 | Lyle Nelson’s Olympic journey

From childhood days racing and jumping at the Little Ski Hill, McCall’s Lyle Nelson went on to compete in four Winter Olympics in biathlon. In 1988, he served as U.S. team captain and carried the American flag at the Calgary Games—an inspiring journey from a small community hill to the world stage.

1984 | Glen Eberle joins the Olympic ranks

Raised skiing competitively around McCall, Glen Eberle represented the United States in biathlon at the Sarajevo Winter Olympics alongside Lyle Nelson. His contribution continued beyond competition: he developed a lighter rifle stock that helped change the equipment used in the sport.

2010 | Another generation reaches the Games

Hailey Duke, who joined the McCall Ski Racing Team at eight, competed in slalom at the Vancouver Winter Olympics, continuing McCall’s proud tradition of helping young skiers pursue their dreams.