When Topher Davenport '21 committed to Colby College and the Mule’s Alpine Skiing Team during his senior year at Holderness, he set a goal for himself: “By the end of my four years at Colby, I want to be an All-American.” Three years into his collegiate skiing career, Topher continues to take steps toward achieving his goal.

After starting just one Eastern Intercollegiate Ski Association Carnival during his sophomore season, Topher started all seven this past year: “ This year, it was important for me to try and improve every aspect of my skiing, whether it's on the hill, in the gym, eating right, or being a good team member, and it has all paid off.” Topher achieved his season goal of lowering his slalom points to under 30, narrowly missing out on qualifying for the NCAA Championship.

Looking back on the season, Topher said, “ There's always going to be ups and downs, but you need failure to have success. I think this season can just be defined by learning.” As he begins preparing for his final season as a Mule, Topher is increasingly motivated to improve: “The older I get, the more I want to keep racing, the more effort I want to put in, and the more I want to maximize the time I have left in my skiing career.” 

Topher approaches skiing with the motto, “Do it because you love it.” 

These words are a reminder of all the opportunities skiing has given him: “I love the sport. I wouldn't change it for the world. I'm super grateful for what it's done for me and where it's brought me.” A motto he adopted during his time at Holderness, it directs his focus away from any outside pressure and allows him to enjoy every moment he has on the ski hill: “I just love the grind of trying to get better and better yourself on the slope.” 

Reflecting on his time at Holderness, Topher highlights the relationships he was able to build with his coaches: “They’re people you can connect with–I think that builds a level of trust between you and the coach. It’s very focused and intense when training. However, outside of that, when you see them in class, in the dorm, or around campus, they’re people you can talk to about anything.” These relationships with coaches and teammates provide the foundation and motivation for Topher’s continued growth and hard work: “Seeing my teammates at Holderness get better and excel was very motivational, and it inspired me to do the same thing.” 

Also on the Colby College ski team are former Bulls Brooks Reed '22 and Finn Boissonealt '24.

About Topher

Hometown: Aspen, CO
College Major: Global Studies, Minor in Economics
Holderness Highlights: Mountain biking, ski racing, tennis

View Topher’s profile on Colby Mules >