Erlon "Bucky" Broomhall', Significant Supporter

Inducted Fall 2024

One could write a book about Bucky Broomhall’s contributions to the history of youth skiing in New England, particularly in Nordic skiing. His remarkable influence has earned him a place in multiple Hall of Fame, including the Vermont Ski Hall of Fame, the Vermont Principals Association’s Hall of Fame, two Hall of Fame selections in Colorado, and the Maine Ski Hall of Fame. Over the years, Bucky has been recognized countless times for his pioneering contributions to the sport.

Originally from Rumford, ME, Bucky dedicated his career to creating opportunities for young skiers. Although his time at Fryeburg Academy spanned only two seasons, he established a team model and culture that impacted FA’s Nordic program. His legacy at Fryeburg extended far beyond those seasons, as his vision for a comprehensive cross-country and ski jumping program set the foundation for future generations.

Bucky served in the Korean War from 1951-55 and then enjoyed a successful collegiate career racing for the Western State College Cross Country Ski Team. In 1966, he moved to Bennington, VT, to oversee a total ski program for children of all ages, from kindergarten through high school. Under his leadership, the school’s ski teams excelled. He coached cross-country, jumping, and downhill, winning five Vermont high school state championships and guiding at least 25 skiers to the Junior Olympics. In 1968, he was one of the first coaches in the nation to develop a girls’ team, taking the first girls' team to the Junior Olympics. Among his many accomplishments, Bucky created the Torger Tokle League, now known as the Bill Koch League, which focuses on high school ski development and was selected by the Lake Placid Olympic Committee as an official for the 1980 Winter Olympics.

During his time at FA, with the full support of Headmaster Phil Richards, the Academy’s Board of Trustees, and local landowner John F. Weston, Broomhall began creating a cross-country ski course. Collaborating closely with Howard Ross, head of Fryeburg Academy’s Maintenance Department, Broomhall helped clear a three-mile Nordic trail next to Stark’s alpine slopes. Without modern mechanical grooming equipment, the course was packed entirely with snowshoes sourced from an Army surplus store.
Once the cross-country course was complete, attention shifted to building a 20-meter ski jump. Using plans developed by the United States Ski Association, Broomhall oversaw the construction of an artificial jump hill and outrun, requiring significant excavation. The jump was situated so that skiers would gain speed after landing, and the jump record was believed to be an impressive 72 feet.

In an impressive feat of coordination and effort, Fryeburg Academy hosted the 1961 State of Maine Class A Championship Ski Meet, marking the beginning of a legacy that would influence the school's Nordic and skiing programs for decades to come.