It was a high flying week for the Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club (AVSC) moguls team as they competed in the U.S. Junior National Freestyle Championships held in Park City, Utah from March 17 to 23. Hosted by U.S. Ski and Snowboard, Park City Ski and Snowboard and Utah Olympic Park, the event featured single moguls, dual moguls and aerials for athletes in the U15, U17 and U19 divisions. 

AVSC athletes soared above the competition as two became national champions and many others podiumed or qualified for finals.

On March 21, Hilde Maytin reigned supreme as she was crowned the F13 single moguls national champion. At just 12 years old, Maytin finished 11th in a competitive F15 division. This was her first Junior National Championship.

“It feels awesome to be the champion for U13,” said Maytin. “I am proud of myself for making it this far in mogul skiing.”

Lenna Persson and Jaelyn Spraker competed in the F19 division, finishing second and fifth, respectively.

“Standing on the podium for singles was very exciting, especially since I was standing side-by-side with two girls that I have skied with for many years,” said Persson. “Even though I was sick for most of the competition, I was able to put down a run and still place second. I was proud of myself for that.”

Sam Brown led the men’s team as he powered through an early season injury to finish 13th in the M15 division. Head moguls coach Mido Morimoto said it was a highly competitive field of skiers and an exciting moment for Brown. Teammates Judah Simmons, Kai Rueggeberg and Jake Rueggeberg also competed, finishing 22nd, 27th and 31st, respectively.

“It was amazing to compete against some of the best athletes in the country,” said 14-year-old Kai. “You get to meet new people and see what other competitors are doing for their tricks and skiing.” 

Action continued on March 23 with the dual moguls final, an event where athletes compete head-to-head down the run. Despite dealing with injuries most of the season, Spraker made an incredible comeback and was crowned the F19 national champion. Persson, last year’s U17 champion, finished fourth. 

“It has been so hard not skiing with [Spraker] for most of the season,” said Persson. “To see her come back and ski her favorite event and just thrive [and] do her best, while having fun and also win! I was just so proud and happy for her.”

On the men’s side, Kai qualified for the duals’ round of 16 — a standout moment for the young athlete. 

“Everyone progressed from last season,” said Brown. “One thing I love about the mogul team is how everyone strives to get better.”

Following Junior Nationals, Spraker and Persson headed to Palisades Tahoe to compete in the Toyota U.S. Mogul Freestyle National Championships. On March 28, Persson finished 12th overall in a deep, single moguls field.

“The whole mogul team is so dedicated. It’s really inspiring and fun to be a part of,” said Eric Knight, AVSC freestyle program director. “During the season, we don’t want the athletes to feel pressure, but most of their goals are to qualify and attend Junior Nationals. To see the enthusiasm and how hard the team is working is amazing.”

Camaraderie on the slopes
For over four decades, AVSC has been a beacon for top-notch skiers. The club has produced Olympic medalists, X-Games stars and national champions and has received multiple accolades, including being named the 2024 U.S. Freeski Club of the Year. 

While the 2024/2025 season is over for the moguls team, training continues throughout the year in places like Mount Hood and the Buttermilk Glacier. Summers are spent water ramping at the Utah Olympic Park. It is during these kinds of sessions when participants develop as athletes, but also become like family.

“I like the camaraderie,” said Kai. “We all have fun together, and we all have a good time.”

Knight said many coaches are AVSC alums and embody the club’s mission to support well-rounded people. Morimoto and the moguls coaching staff (including: Owen Fredrick, Aaron Lee and Jetzen O’Connor) have cultivated an environment that balances safety, fun and the opportunity to excel to the highest level — a recipe for long-term success.

“I feel lucky to have this group of kids on the team. We’re a family of mogul skiers who are truly dedicated to our sport,” said Morimoto. “The future is bright for our athletes who are making their way up the rankings … I hope to see them accomplish their goals of becoming great competitors and, above all, great humans from their experiences as competitive mogul skiers.”