Age Group:

8-11 yrs old - BIRTH YEAR 2011-2014

Description:

With a focus on fundamental skill building in all types of terrain, coaches will develop the athlete’s introductory ​knowledge of racing skills, techniques, and tactics. Part-Time U10s/U12s are expected to ski at a strong intermediate level- this is parallel ski turns (out of the wedge) on any blue or easy black while maintaining speed and control.

U10 Part Time- This is a good age to expand the athlete’s knowledge of the race arena so the athlete can determine if they want to pursue racing more seriously in the future or explore other avenues of skiing. We focus on incorporating fun and challenging skiing opportunities along with more focused skill building instruction. Gate training is 10-20% of the U10 part time program. Skiing will include: Introduction to technique improvement drills and courses, terrain features, variable all-mountain terrain, introduction to racing tactics.

U12 Part Time - Part time athletes are typically newer to racing/aggressive skiing. This group has strong skiing background, and is now learning to pressure an arched turn. We focus on building skills to become solid all around skiers and introduce more drills, skills courses, and tactical gate training than the U10 programs.

Racing is not required, but is strongly encouraged as it is the most fun and the point of the sport. We encourage our athletes to race in the Southern Series events. Southern Series races consist of three events located at Purgatory (early to mid January), Flagstaff (early February) and Taos (mid to late march). Racers do not have to attend all events to participate in the Southern Series. Team and individual awards are earned in the Southern Series race. Team camps are suggested for added training. U10s are welcome and encouraged to participate at the U10 Championships in Telluride with no need to qualify and the U12’s are welcome and encouraged to attend the U12 Championships in Powderhorn with no need to qualify. Opportunities for local races at Purgatory, Chapman, and Hesperus are available along with participation in regional US Ski and Snowboard races for higher competition.

Program includes fall dryland strength and conditioning training 2 days a week. Occasional video feedback is given with coaches instruction.

Where and When:

• Up to 16 Saturdays at Purgatory. Beginning December 3rd - March 26th, 9am-3pm 
• Weeknight training options are Tuesdays and Thursdays at Chapman Hill. Tuesday nights are best for this group.
• Chapman Hill - Tuesday and Thursday nights 6:30-8:30pm - Chapman Hill is extremely valuable training. The rope tow allows for higher density training on great snow surfaces for racing. Our groups work on skills courses, focused free-skiing, and gate training at Chapman Hill.
• Hesperus - Nights 4-7pm - Hesperus offers great powder skiing, variable groomed and mogul terrain, and good gate training when conditions allow. Hesperus sessions are rare and may be a substitute for Chapman when free skiing is our best option.
• Mid-Week training typically starts the first week in January and finishes mid-March. These dates are weather dependent and may be earlier or later. 

Tuition Includes:

• 16 Saturdays at Purgatory Dec-Mar
• 10 sessions of midweek night training Jan-Mar (days of week subject to change)
• Dedicated training access to NASTAR Race Course and additional DWSC training space
• Race equipment purchasing and ski tuning discounts at team gear night and Pine Needle Mountaineering
• Video Feedback (up to 2 per month)
• Ski Tuning Support and Clinics (parents welcome)
• Preseason fall hikes (Saturdays - parents welcome)
• Preseason strength and conditioning 2/week
• Total coaching time: 104 hours approximately

Tuition does NOT include:

• Purgatory Resort Ski Pass
• Chapman Hill Ski Pass
• Seasonal ski rental/other equipment
• Travel Fees (only if travelling to races)
• USSA Membership
• Purg Cup/special events entry fees

Equipment Guidelines:

• Front entry 3 or 4 buckle boot
• 1 pair junior race ski appropriate for SL/GS. Depending on skier level, 2 pairs may be suggested
• Appropriate Length Poles
• Hard ear race helmet. 
• Well-fitting goggles and gloves.
• Appropriate jackets and pants for various weather conditions. 

• Early Tuition Discount Price: $1,315.31 (if registered before 10/15/2022)
• Normal Tuition Price: $1,461.46
• Payment Plan available at Registration Check Out