alpine U16/U18

Given a variety of competitive and training situations, U16/U18 racers continue to develop the necessary skills in preparation for FIS Team racing. Free-skiing the entire mountain, technical gate training and/or high-speed GS courses are par for any given program day. We mix a combination of fun while teaching strong work ethics and sportsmanship skills.

Skiers participate in US Ski & Snowboard races in Vermont and the Eastern Region. VARA and USSA membership required.

PHILOSOPHY
Given a variety of competitive and training situations, U16/U18 racers continue to develop the necessary skills in preparation for FIS Team. Free-skiing the entire mountain, technical gate training and/or high speed GS courses are part of any given program day. We combine fun and skill development while teaching strong work ethics and sportsmanship skills. This program maintains a strong focus on free-skiing and building fundamental skills in order for athletes to progress properly in the development process.

TECHNICAL GOALS
U-16/U18’s will begin to master carving of both skis in a variety of terrain, conditions and turn shape. Their balance becomes dynamic and they are actively seeking challenging situations to improve their technique. They strive to ski linked carved turns, master the pole plant, and ski challenging runs in a variety of snow conditions. Speed begins to play a more important role as U-16’s progress. Learning how to tuck properly, understanding line choices in SG and downhill courses, and learning how to be comfortable in the air as well as over terrain changes begin to improve the speed elements of a U-16.

COMPETITION GOALS
U-16’s have many opportunities to experience competition and the rewards derived from developing a strong work ethic by putting forth one’s best effort. Throughout the regular scheduled races there are plenty of opportunities for improvement and self-evaluation. Coaches give feedback with each race run, often with video support. Goals will vary per athlete and be dependent upon their personal goals which will be set prior in the season with assistance from the coaches. Ultimately athletes should become comfortable with race day routines and become self-sufficient on race day.

COMPETITION EVENTS
U16/U18 athletes have the opportunity to compete in US Ski & Snowboard races throughout the year and compete for points with racers from other regions and age groups. Athletes should be prepared to travel throughout Vermont and neighboring states to compete.  U16 Athletes will compete in the VARA U16 State Championships and other U16 only races.  Competitions require VARA and USSA membership.

METHODOLOGY
The following provides overview highlights of the Program’s curriculum. Should a more detailed curriculum be desired, please contact the Head Coach.

• Conditioning: Summer and Fall training focusing on anaerobic endurance and strength.
• Freeskiing: As much as humanly possible. (30% of on-snow time)
• Freeskiing drills: The early season will focus on Freeskiing Drills before we get into gates, then throughout the season as needed on an individual basis. Coaches and athletes will focus on fundamental skill building especially early in the season. This is very important in creating a well-rounded fast skier.
• Gate drills: Will be used frequently throughout the season. (10% on snow time)
• Gate training: race preparation training, Will occur almost daily. (60% on snow time)
• Video analysis: Will occur as needed. The athlete will watch video of themselves, however, the need for the athlete to develop the ability to feel their skiing, and not become dependent on video is critical.
• Mental skills training/Goal setting: Daily. Any athlete in any sport who wishes to be the best they can be needs to spend time with mental skill training. Imagery, focus, and especially attitude will be addressed daily.
• Equipment preparation, maintenance: All athletes will be trained in race ski preparation and they shall be responsible for maintaining their own equipment.
• Speed Element Training: continue the development of speed skills (speed, terrain features, technique)

Race Schedules / Rules / Entry Fees
Please visit: www.vara.org and www.ussa.org for all race schedules, rules, and entry fees.
Coaches’ Travel Expenses
Coaches’ travel expenses (room and meals) are to be shared equally by all athlete families attending any given race. Normally, single day trips to NVC races do not produce coaches travel expenses.
             Communications/Questions
Questions regarding the program should be addressed first to the Coaches, then the Head Coach, and lastly the Executive Director. Updated information is available on SNSC website www.snscsvt.com, Facebook, and group emails are common pathways. General office questions can be directed to 644-1177.
Parent Involvement On-and-Off Hill:

• Parent orientation meeting and year end awards:
• Race days: There is always the need for a parent or two helping at races. Similarly, assistance transporting jackets and warm-ups from the race start to finish area is always appreciated.

       Other Expectations:      

• Athlete on-hill assistance requirements: If asked, all athletes are expected to assist coaches and staff in setting up, maintaining, and tearing down training courses.
• On-snow sessions in excess of applicable program: Should an athlete’s participation in on-snow sessions be in excess of the program days signed up for, then the athlete will be asked to re-register and pay for (on a pro-rated basis) the appropriate number of program days.

Athlete Expectations

• Have Fun!!!
• Try, do the best you can, it is all you can do
• Represent SNSC in the utmost manner at all times on and off skis (act appropriately and respectfully to all mountain staff, guests, and other mountain racers/coaches while a member of SNSC)
• Arrive on time for Training and Races, and be on snow or on the lift on time, when instructed by coach
• Inspect course thoroughly during training and races individually or with other athletes, discuss what you inspected with your coach before training or racing
• Be prepared for training sessions and Races (have all your equipment for all weather conditions with you at all times)
• Have proper equipment for training (race specific for race training, Freeski equipment for freeskiing)
• Have three pairs of skis minimum (at least one pair for Slalom (SL), at least one for Giant Slalom (GS), and a pair for freeskiing)
• Have the proper SL protection (Shin Guards, Pole Guards, chin bar)
• Have a proper GS helmet
• Respect your coaches – (don’t talk while they are talking unless you have a question)
• Listen to your coaches at all times
• Focus during drills or training
• Come to training and races with tuned and waxed skis (should be tuning and waxing your own skis)
• Use proper radio etiquette
• Watch ALL World Cup Ski Races
• Attend dryland training when not conflicting with other athletic activates
• Complete other off-season workouts as instructed by coach
• Play one or two other sports/athletic activities during the year

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENT
SL skis, GS skis, SG skis, (DH skis and some SG’s are loaned out for $40 from the club’s speed stock.) Helmets, protective gear (shin guards, pole guards, forearm guards)

MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
USSA, VARA Please visit www.vara.org and www.ussa.org for details