The Fitzharris story began with an All-American athlete who wanted to encourage and support future generations of athletes throughout Minnesota.

Jim Fitzharris attended St. Thomas, where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball. In 1945, he received letters inviting him to play professional football for both the Chicago Cardinals and the New York Giants. Jim, however, had a different plan.

1952 — Fitzharris Athletics Opens

Jim opened Fitzharris Athletics in a space of approximately 500 square feet. During the store’s early years, nearly 90% of its business came from supplying schools of all sizes with uniforms and equipment for a wide variety of athletic programs.

As the interests of its customers changed, Fitzharris Athletics continued to evolve.

1971 — The Ski Shop Is Added

In 1971, employee Steve Linvaul helped introduce a ski shop to the business. A Minnesota native who attended St. Cloud State University through 1974, Steve shared Jim’s passion for encouraging athletes and helping them succeed.

1993 — Continuing the Fitzharris Legacy

By 1993, Steve and Terree were carrying the Fitzharris legacy forward, building on the company’s history of knowledgeable service and community involvement.

1997 — Jack’s Bikes Joins Fitzharris

In 1997, Fitzharris Ski & Sport acquired Jack’s Bikes, another respected local business that had served the community for decades.

Over the years, Fitzharris moved and expanded seven times before arriving at the store you know today.

2010 — A New Generation Takes the Lead

In 2010, Mike and Bill—two former employees of Steve and Terree—took over the business and began the next chapter of the Fitzharris story.

Their vision was to continue the company’s tradition of encouraging athletes while expanding its focus beyond traditional team sports and into the world of outdoor adventure.

Fitzharris Today

Today, Fitzharris specializes in downhill skiing, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, cycling, tennis, pickleball, canoeing, camping, and skateboarding.

Although the activities and equipment have changed over the years, our purpose remains the same: to provide knowledgeable service, support active lifestyles, and find meaningful ways to make a positive impact in our community.

More than 70 years after Jim first opened the doors, Fitzharris remains committed to helping people get outside, stay active, and enjoy their next adventure.