Petoskey High School

Jac is a native of Cross Village, MI, where he grew up bound to the Nubs Nob family as a stoked skiing and snowboarding grom. Jac participated as a racer through Harbor Springs schools for 8 years, working as an instructor in between his race training sessions with Nubs Nob Racing. He helped Harbor Springs earn their latest boys State Championship in 2010, and earned all-state recognition during his senior year. Following high school, Jac naturally transitioned into race coaching while attending college, and since then has held coaching positions over the past 13 years within Petoskey Middle School, Petoskey High School, Nubs Nob Racing, and various U.S Ski and Snowboard club programs. He currently works as the manager for all competition programs at both of Boyne’s local ski resorts, as well as head of all competition events at Boyne Mountain. Jac’s goal as a coach has always been to develop the best alpine athletes in the midwest, no matter what the training environment. When Jac is not coaching, you will probably find him out surfing on the Great Lakes, hunting in the backwoods for deer and fresh powder, training for grappling competitions, or out riding the hills with all of his buddies.

Tony Blancato is a longtime alpine ski racing coach, industry professional, and life enthusiast! With decades of experience in competitive ski racing, Tony has built a reputation for combining technical expertise with a deep commitment to athlete development. Tony’s strengths are found in encouraging and fostering strong fundamentals, discipline, and a positive team culture! Tony’s constant encouragement and positivity help athletes reach their potential both on and off the hill. Beyond coaching, Tony is a co-founder of SkierQuest, a U.S.-based alpine racing equipment company focused on high-quality, athlete-driven design. In the summer and fall, Tony travels the globe in pursuit of snow, coaching wherever the conditions take him. Tony spent many years supporting his sons as they achieved incredible success in their own ski racing careers. Above all, he cherishes time with his family—his greatest accomplishment!

Eric Smith

Assistant Coach