From Interschools to the Olympic Stage - Rosie Fordham’s Cross Country Journey

Rosie Fordham is an Australian cross country skier who has represented her country and is set to make her Olympic debut at the Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games. 

Her journey began through Snow Australia’s Interschools events, where she first tried cross country skiing while representing her school, Abbotsleigh. 

What started as a spontaneous decision to give it a go quickly grew into a passion and career, proving how grassroots school sport can open the door to elite competition.

“I started doing Cross Country Skiing at Interschools. I just gave it a try because I was at States anyway,” she said. 

That decision to line up at the start line and see what happened turned out to be a pivotal moment.

Rosie quickly realised cross country skiing suited her strengths. With a background in running and a love for being on snow, the sport clicked almost immediately.

“I was decent and liked that it combined my love for skiing with my fitness from running,” she explained. “So I started training with NSWXC.”

From there, her interest grew into commitment, and commitment grew into a career that would eventually take her to the highest level of international competition.

Rosie represented Abbotsleigh at Interschools, and the experience became one of the highlights of her school years. While her team was small, the bond between teammates was strong and it was that sense of shared experience that made Interschools special.

“It was really fun,” Rosie said. “We had a pretty small team but the same girls did Interschools every year from year seven. I had a lot of fun racing with my friends, especially in relays.”

For Rosie, it wasn’t just about results. It was about community, friendship, and being part of something exciting each winter.

One of the most powerful aspects of Interschools is its inclusivity. something Rosie remembers clearly. 

“Getting to ski with my friends from school… It's fun that interschools is so inclusive of all levels of skiing. There’s a lot less pressure than skiing at a national championship.”

She also loved seeing students step outside their comfort zones.

“It was always cool to see lots of people who don’t cross country ski at all come and give it a go.”

On the eve of competing at her first Olympic Games, Rosie still credits Interschools as the starting point that made everything possible. Her message to students considering joining the program is simple and powerful.

“Probably just to try everything,” she said. “I didn’t do cross country before Interschools and without Interschools I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

“Taking opportunities when they arise can open doors you didn’t even know existed.”

Rosie Fordham’s story is a reminder that elite athletes don’t always begin with a grand plan. Sometimes it starts with a school event, a spontaneous decision, and the courage to try something new.

From her first race at Interschools to representing Australia on the world stage, Rosie’s journey proves just how important grassroots programs like Snow Australia’s Interschools can be not only for building future champions, but for giving young people the chance to discover what they’re capable of.