Proctor/Hermantown boys Nordic team departs for first state meet in 25 years

A new flag adorns the entrance of Proctor High School after the state bound Proctor/Hermantown Nordic ski team raised their colors during a sendoff Tuesday afternoon.

The Rails’ boys team edged Mora by five points in last week’s Section 7 meet to secure their first trip to state in 25 years. It’s a long time coming for Proctor, who’s coach remembers their last run well.

"Our coach Gookins was one of the original skiers on the team that went, so to continue his legacy has been awesome," senior skier Joshua Knight said.

"There was a run of Proctor teams in 1995, 1996, 1997 that had a good run at state," coach Josh Gookins explained. "It’s special to go back especially with these amazing kids."

They’ll be joined by Proctor’s Della Bettendorf who individually qualified on the girls side.

The state Nordic ski meet will be held at Giants Ridge in Biwabik on Wednesday and Thursday. The state alpine meet is Wednesday also at Giants Ridge.