Julianne Stemp, a Tri-Lakes native, has returned to assist with the New York Ski Educational Foundation cross-country skiing program. (Photo provided)

WILMINGTON — Julianne Stemp will take over as the assistant cross-country skiing coach at the New York Ski Educational Foundation.

Stemp joins head coach Shane MacDowell and will support the cross-country and biathlon programs in training and racing as well as assisting with team management and logistics.

“We are proud to have an alum with so much experience and knowledge come back to the area,” NYSEF Executive Director John Norton said. “It’s a testament to the strong outdoor sport culture instilled in the area and within the NYSEF program. Julianne’s education and athletic career is impressive; we’re lucky to have her join our team.”

Stemp, who currently resides in Paul Smiths, is excited to rejoin the NYSEF program, this time as a coach.

“I am honored to return to the Adirondacks and to mentor the next generation of cross-country skiers within my home program,” Stemp said.

Stemp trained alongside local Olympic athletes Lowell Bailey, Tim Burke and Annelies Cook during her younger years.

“We grew up in a unique community which helped foster a passion for skiing and created a path for personal success,” Stemp said.

During her time as a NYSEF athlete, Stemp assisted with the Bill Koch youth cross-country programs at the Dewey Mountain Recreation Center in Saranac Lake and the Cascade Cross Country Ski Center in Lake Placid. Upon graduating from Saranac Lake High School and NYSEF, Stemp competed at the collegiate level at the University of New Hampshire, where she majored in kinesiology with a focus in education. After college, she held various cross-country coaching roles while also pursuing her master’s degree in school counseling.

“Julianne’s experience as a high school and master’s ski coach, combined with her terrific ability to connect with people will contribute greatly to the growth of our program,” MacDowell said.

Stemp began working with NYSEF in mid-July and will be assisting the junior programs throughout the summer.

“I’m filled with gratitude for NYSEF and the outstanding coaching community in the Adirondacks,” Stemp said.

When Stemp is not coaching, she enjoys cycling throughout the Adirondacks and spending time with her family and dog Ozzie.