General Information
For alpine skiers ages 10+
Athlete must have participated in YSL, USSA, or be approved by coach. This program is for advanced skiers
This program is for advanced skiers and snowboarders ages 10 and up who are interested in training for competitive IFSA sanctioned Big Mountain/Freeride competitions, though participation in competitions is not required.. You can learn more about the IFSA (International Freeskiers and Snowboarders Association) here. Not to be confused with freestyle, slopestyle and park events, these competitions take place on advanced and extreme terrain at various ski resorts throughout the Rocky Mountain region and elsewhere. A complete and thorough explanation of the competition format and rules can be found here.
We structure our training to combine elements of ski and snowboard basics along with terrain and venue specifics. We work with the racing program as well as on our own to help everyone improve and become not only better prepared for competitions, but also to help each athlete become more proficient and safe when skiing and riding in advanced terrain. We balance the practice of skills development drills with “fun” skiing in the advanced terrain option at powderhorn. We do train at jumping and dropping off cliff features, however this is not a primary focus of the program. Though we occasionally train in the terrain park, this is also not a standard part of our training. Our training is on Saturdays and Sundays beginning the first weekend in December (December 7-8, 2024) and running through the first week of March (March 8-9, 2025). We will also have additional training during the winter break with an opportunity to train at another resort for a few days. Athletes are not expected to attend every training but are welcome to attend as many as their schedule allows.
For safety and risk management, all athletes must be competent in exposed, extreme terrain. All interested athletes must have previously participated in at least one year of YSL or USSA racing OR take part in an early season try out. All interested snowboard athletes must participate in an early season try out. All athletes are required to wear ski helmets and back protection is required for participation in competitive events. All skiers are required to use ski poles.
For more information or if you have questions contact head coach Vince Anderson.
Typical Day
9:00-11:30 on hill skiing and skill development
11:00-12:00 Lunch
12:00-3:00 on hill skiing and skill development
Schedule
Christmas Camp:
Dec. 21-23 (0ff 24th,25th,26th)
Dec. 27-30 (0ff 31stt, 1st)
Jan. 2-5
Comp Schedule:
TBD
Program Fees
$1,300.00 – U12 (Ages10-11 before Jan 1, 2025)
$1,500.00 – U15 (Ages12-14 before Jan 1, 2025)