The energetic cheers from members of the FVCC Logger Sports team reverberated over the revving of chainsaws and the chopping of axes during a recent practice in Kalispell.
Unlike many other athletic endeavors, logger sports are more often about the camaraderie than the competition.
“You’ll be done with your event and you’ll race over and cheer on the person who was going against you,” says Annie Beall, who helps coach the team with her husband, Bob.
Logger sports showcase the rich history of forestry and logging through a number of events, such as the axe throw, double buck, obstacle pole and horizontal speed chop.
The FVCC team has captured more national championship wins than any other logger sports team in the nation.
“I think sports teaches a lot of life lessons,” Beall says. “It doesn’t matter if you can’t walk and chew gum at the same time. If you’re willing to put in the work to go get it and practice, you’re on the traveling team.”
The team is preparing for the upcoming Stumpjumper Days on April 9. The competition is returning to FVCC after a two-year hiatus, and will feature six teams from around the region.
Free and open to the public, the event will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the FVCC Logger Sports Arena, accessible via the first exit off the Hutton Ranch Road roundabout.
For more information, visit www.fvcc.edu/loggersports.html.
