The phrase ‘dark horse’ may describe Nolan Kasper to a tee. He received the first World Cup starts of his young career early this season and translated them into a top 30 finish at Kitzbuehel and then scored his first points at Schladming. His drive and determination, plus his future potential gave Kapser a coaches nod for the Olympic Team in slalom.

Kasper, 20, of Warren, is a Burke Mountain Academy graduate, who won the bronze medal at World Junior Championships in 2009 in slalom.

Some highlights:

• 2010 U.S. Olympic Team Member
• 2009: SL bronze at Junior Worlds
• 2009: ESWA Golden Ski Award Winner
• 2009: U.S Champs combined silver
• 2009: Jr. SL winner at U.S. Champs, 5thoverall
• 2006: Four silvers at Jr. Nationals