Anderson launched the Ely ski program from scratch back in the 1990s and guided the Timberwolves to prominence over the next two decades. She coached the boys to a state title in 2010, countless section championships and runner up finishes going against section 7 rival Duluth East, and guided Erin Bianco — a current BSF World Cup skier — to the individual title in 2017.

We reached out to hear her ski story, how she built such a successful program, and her advice to coaches trying to do the same. 

Ely has one of the smallest student populations for schools with cross-country skiing, yet she continues to attract a team that makes up almost 10% of enrollment at the high school. The Ely ski team is a club team that is funded only from community supported fundraisers. Paula is involved with the yearly acquisition of funds to secure that another ski season will take place in Ely. She not only works to make sure the funds are developing, but that the skiers are developing as well by leading a summer workout program. Her ability to individualize the training for her athletes is a unique skill.