Local Athletes Selected for International Competition

Two young American athletes from the Upper Midwest — Thomas Matthews of Marquette, Michigan, and Mason Palecek from Oshkosh, Wisconsin — have been selected to represent the United States in international luge competition in Germany. The two athletes who represent the U.S. National Alpine Luge Team are currently training for their upcoming international competitions.

Alpine luge is a fast, high-speed winter sport where athletes slide down icy tracks on small sleds, steering with precision and balance. Matthews, 16, and Palecek, 18, have shown strong performance in recent national trials and earned spots to compete against luge riders from around the world.

Training and Preparation

The athlete selection process requires athletes to demonstrate their ability to run at high speeds while maintaining precise control and consistent performance. The competition in Germany will provide them with both difficult international standard courses and the chance to face elite worldwide athletes.

The opportunity provides Matthews and Palecek with a personal development opportunity which involves testing their pressure management skills and developing their confidence for high-demand situations. The athletes received support from their families together with their coaches and community members who reside in Marquette and Oshkosh throughout their athletic development.

What This Means for U.S. Luge

The U.S. Alpine Luge Team shows its progress as a sport which European athletes have controlled since its inception. The United States luging community receives international recognition through their overseas competitions which motivate young athletes to pursue international competition.

The team's training facilities in Germany will enable officials to assess their training methods and performance evaluation systems during actual competition events. The American luge racing program will benefit from international experience acquired by coaches who train the upcoming generation of athletes.