Malden High School clubs are reaching new heights…literally! With the discovery of the Rock Climbing Club, MHS students can now tackle new challenges, try something adventurous, and discover a constantly growing sport that is welcoming to absolutely everyone.
This new addition to Malden High was founded by sophomore and competitive climber Charlotte Berliner. Berliner has been rock climbing for over nine years, six of which were competitive. Her passion for the sport inspired her to create a club that emphasizes accessibility, fun, and a sense of community.
Funded by Together Outdoors, with the help of Darren Josey from the Malden Great Outdoors, Berliner was able to create a club with the goal of bringing students together through physical activity.
Berliner described the Rock Climbing Club as “low-stakes,” designed for students who want to give climbing a try without any pressure.
“We don’t require you to come to every event,” she said. “The reason why I made this was just so people could try it out. You don’t have to meet any specific requirements; you just have to want to put in the effort to learn this new, blossoming sport.”Berliner’s approach is refreshingly simple. “When I join clubs, I hate going to meetings. I just want to do the event,” she emphasized. With that in mind, she has structured the club to minimize meetings and maximize hands-on climbing experiences. Every other week, there is an opportunity to go to a free climbing event, where students can rock climb cost-free at The Rock Spot in Malden Center.
For Berliner, rock climbing is more than just a sport—it is a mindset. “I started climbing when I was six,” she shared. “I was this tiny kid with no idea what I was doing. If I could start climbing then, I think anyone at Malden High can start climbing now. You just have to be willing to give it a try.”
“Hopefully, the club can grow, and we could get a bunch of kids climbing every week,” she said. “It would be amazing to see more participation and for the club to become a big part of Malden High.” The club currently meets bi-weekly, but Berliner has high hopes for its future.
Malden High chemistry teacher John Frigo has guided the club toward success. He highlighted the inclusivity of the sport and Berliner’s incredible dedication, which even led to a student donation that allows club members to climb for free.
“Our club is the first of its kind,” Frigo said. “Rock climbing is generally a rather expensive sport, but Charlotte’s hard work has made it accessible for everyone. The Rock Climbing Club is the most inclusive and welcoming club at Malden High.”
Whether you are looking to challenge yourself or have a good time, the Rock Climbing Club invites you to join their adventure. As Berliner said, “Anyone can do it. Anyone can show up and just try. That’s all you’ve got to do.”
If you are interested in climbing to new heights, contact cberline27@maldenps.org for more information. Let us scale new challenges together at Malden High!
